Do you have a master’s degree in engineering, environmental science, chemistry, materials science or other scientific disciplines with relevance to the sustainability of materials and chemicals? Would you like to devote yourself to high-impact research into the sustainability of plastic injection moulding materials? We have a proposal for you.
Ca’ Foscari University Venice in cooperation with Stamplast is offering a position in the PhD programme in Environmental Sciences of the Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics. The research topic will be ‘Research, analysis and experimentation on green polymers in the injection moulding process’.
The objective of the research is to evaluate a range of polymers (traditional and innovative) used in injection moulding to identify those that are most sustainable.
Supporting sustainable choices
Functionality will be evaluated in relation to the products in which the polymers are used. In addition, their sustainability will be assessed in terms of environmental and human health impacts, material circularity characteristics, recovery/reuse alternatives for production waste, and social and economic impacts. For this purpose, a sustainability assessment matrix will be developed to compare different polymer alternatives and support decision-making with customers and suppliers.
Innovative approach and LCA
The integration of the sustainability and functionality characteristics of different polymers will be carried out through a multi-criteria analysis methodology that will support the expert in selecting different polymers on the basis of a sustainability/functionality score. The analysis is carried out considering a Life Cycle Thinking approach, and also includes the application of Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) methodologies of processes and products. The methodology developed can then be applied to other sectors/polymers.
The profile
Applicants should have a Master’s degree in engineering, environmental science, chemistry, materials science or other scientific disciplines with relevance to the sustainability of materials and chemicals. Experience working with different types of data analysis, e.g. statistical analysis and life cycle assessment, is an advantage, as is experience in a chemical laboratory.
Good written and oral English language skills are desirable. Great importance is given to personal qualities, such as the ability to work independently, flexibility, the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines, curiosity and a willingness to learn, as well as the ability to work in a team and problem solving skills.
Where and when
The PhD is going to start in October 2022 and will last three years. The selected person will work at the university’s Scientific Campus (Mestre, Via Torino) and at the Stamplast site (Località Luni, 7, San Gregorio nelle Alpi, Belluno), where he/she will carry out visits and a period in the company.
How to apply
The call for applications with all the information is published in the website section of the univerisity dedicated to the PNRR call for applications. For any further information please contact Mrs. Lisa Pizzol lisa.pizzol@unive.it
On this topic, read the interview on “How to improve environmental sustainability performance“.
