PhD – Engineering – Italy

The Polytechnic University of Turin is offering a position for a highly motivated PhD student within the European doctoral network “CRITERIA” in the field of optimising excavation and mining methods applied to tailings and mining waste for the purposes of remediation and environmental protection. The CRITERIA network aims to train young researchers to tackle challenges related to the modelling and characterisation of critical raw material deposits for their sustainable exploration and development. This position is funded by the Doctoral Networks Programme, which forms part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA).

About the project:

The PhD aims to conduct comprehensive research into excavation and exploitation techniques applied to mine tailings and waste, focusing on their remediation potential and broader environmental implications. This includes analysing methods to mitigate the adverse effects of mining activities and exploring innovative strategies for the recovery and reuse of waste materials. The research will also assess the environmental impacts of these techniques, with the aim of identifying sustainable practices that minimise ecological damage.

A crucial aspect of the study involves assessing the feasibility of recovering and reusing mining waste, with an emphasis on transforming tailings into valuable resources. This requires a comprehensive analysis of current geological mapping and material blending techniques, as well as efforts to improve these processes whilst maintaining or optimising production efficiency. Advanced technological interventions and innovative engineering solutions will be explored to ensure effective waste management and resource recovery.

Furthermore, the project will investigate the potential of in-situ bioleaching methods as a sustainable approach to extracting valuable metals from tailings. This technique can reduce environmental pollution by harnessing microbial activity, whilst recovering economically important elements. The results of this research aim to contribute to more sustainable mining practices and support the transition towards a circular economy in the mining sector

Requirements: 

• Master’s degree or equivalent in chemical or civil engineering (also environmental, mining or energy resources engineering, and related fields).
• Good command of English.
• Years of research experience: 1–4 years.
• Willingness to undertake temporary placements at partner companies and academic institutions is essential.

Benefits:

• Gross salary(for the first 31 months) consists of:
  • Living allowance: €3,300/month, multiplied by the weighting factor for the country where the researcher is employed.
  • Mobility allowance: 600 EUR/month
  • Family allowance,if applicable, depending on family circumstances at the time the contract is signed: €495/month. 

• Successful candidates will be offered a 36-month full-time employment contract (31 months under the MSCA CRITERIA project and 5 months at the Polytechnic University of Turin).

Organisation/company: PolytechnicUniversity of Turin.

Field of research: Chemical and civilengineering .

Research profile: Early-career researcher (R1).

Country: Italy.

Application deadline: 24 April 2026.

For more information: Euraxess.