PhD Studentship – Mine Planning, University of Alberta, Canada

PhD Studentship – Mine Planning: The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Alberta is offering two funded PhD positions in the field of optimization and operational research. The selected candidates will work under the supervision of Drs. John Doucette and Milad Nazarahari, director of the IDEA Lab. The research will focus on mine planning and operations optimization, utilizing operations research and advanced analytical methods.

PhD Studentship – Mine Planning/Operations Optimization

Designation: PhD Studentship

Research Area: Mine Planning/Operations Optimization

Location: University of Alberta, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Eligibility/Qualification:

• MSc degree in Mechanical/Industrial Engineering, Operational Research, or Engineering Management.
• Research experience in optimization and operational research.
• Proficiency in programming with MATLAB for data analysis/visualization.
• Proficient in programming with Python, and/or C/C++.
• Familiarity with CPLEX and/or Gurobi Optimizer solvers and AMPL mathematical programming language.
• Minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 (or equivalent).
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications (assets):

• Experience with discrete-event simulation.
• Experience in metaheuristic optimization algorithms.
• Experience in machine learning techniques.

Job Description: The research project, in collaboration with the Mining Optimization Laboratory, aims to solve complex, large-scale mine planning/operations decision-making problems using operations research techniques. The department values and promotes Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their applications to Dr. Nazarahari via email (nazaraha@ualberta.ca) with the subject line: “Prospective PhD Candidate – Mine Planning/Operations Optimization – [Your Full Name].” The application should include:

1. Cover Letter: A brief statement of motivation, research interests, and relevant past experiences (max 1 page).
2. Academic CV: Including a list of publications and relevant experiences.
3. Transcripts: Transcripts of previous degrees (pdf file).
4. Language Test Results: English language test results, e.g., TOEFL, IELTS (pdf file) for international students.
5. Publications: Representative publications if available (pdf file, max 3 samples).

Deadline: Until the position is filled.

Link