Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Assessment and Monitoring of Soil Health at Contaminated Sites – Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology
Quick Overview
LIST is offering a PhD position within the MSCA RESCUE project to develop a context-sensitive methodology for assessing and monitoring soil health at contaminated sites using geophysical characterisation methods. You’ll integrate soil health descriptors, ecosystem services, and EU regulatory frameworks into a unified assessment approach. The position includes secondments at University of Gent, Linköping University, University of Milano-Bicocca, and industry partner Siterem.
Experience Level: Master’s graduate in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Soil Science, or related field
Best Fit: Candidates with interest in soil health assessment, ecosystem services, and LCA
Deadline: July 12, 2026
Key Details
| Position | PhD Researcher (MSCA DN RESCUE project) |
| Project | Assessment and monitoring of soil health at contaminated sites using geophysical characterisation methods |
| Location | LIST, Belvaux, Luxembourg |
| PhD Enrolment | University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy |
| Qualification | Master’s in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Industrial Ecology, Soil Science, or related field |
| Duration | Up to 36 months |
| Contract Type | Fixed term |
| Deadline | July 12, 2026 |
| Apply Via | MSCA DN RESCUE portal or Euraxess |
| Supervisor | Dr. Anna ESPINOZA |
Opportunity Overview
The MSCA RESCUE project focuses on developing innovative approaches for soil remediation and ecosystem restoration at contaminated sites. This PhD position sits at the intersection of soil science, environmental assessment, and regulatory frameworks.
You’ll develop a context-sensitive methodology for assessing and monitoring soil health at contaminated sites using geophysical characterisation methods. This involves integrating:
- Soil health descriptors
- Ecosystem services
- EU regulatory frameworks (including the Soil Monitoring Law)
The research will evaluate site-specific phytomanagement strategies through multi-criteria analysis and enhance LIST’s existing NBenefit$ tool using system dynamic modelling, LCA, and LCC.
Research Environment
LIST is a leading Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) in Luxembourg with cutting-edge expertise in Natural, Built, and Industrial environments.
Key strengths:
- Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs
- Multicultural and international work environment (60+ nationalities)
- Strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe
- Focus on sustainable and green society solutions
Secondments (12 months total):
- University of Gent (3 months)
- Linköping University (4 months)
- University of Milano-Bicocca (4 months)
- Siterem-Belgium (1 month – industry partner)
What You’ll Actually Be Doing
Primary responsibilities:
- Develop a context-sensitive methodology for soil health assessment using geophysical characterisation methods
- Integrate soil health descriptors, ecosystem services, and EU regulatory frameworks
- Evaluate site-specific phytomanagement strategies through multi-criteria analysis
- Build and enhance LIST’s NBenefit$ tool (system dynamic modelling + LCA + LCC)
- Apply the enhanced tool to a real case study in Wallonia with industry partner Siterem
- Collaborate with Doctoral Candidate from Linköping University (DC14)
- Engage in four secondments across Europe
Who Should Apply
This position is best for a Master’s graduate in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Industrial Ecology, Soil Science, or a closely related field.
Strong candidates will have:
- Familiarity with soil health indicators, ecosystem services assessment, and phytomanagement strategies
- Experience with or strong interest in system dynamic modelling
- Knowledge of LCA and/or LCC methodologies (asset)
- Basic understanding of applied geophysical methods (asset)
- Knowledge of EU soil-related regulatory frameworks (asset)
- Proficiency in data analysis, scientific writing, and relevant modelling or programming tools
Skills That Will Help You Stand Out
| Skill | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Soil health indicators | Core to the project |
| Ecosystem services assessment | Integrated approach |
| System dynamic modelling | Building the NBenefit$ tool |
| LCA/LCC | Methodological framework |
| Geophysical methods | Assessment approach |
| EU regulatory frameworks | Soil Monitoring Law |
| Data analysis | Research and modelling |
| Scientific writing | Publications and reporting |
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 36 months |
| Location | Belvaux, Luxembourg |
| PhD Enrolment | University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy |
| Annual Leave | 32 days paid |
| Public Holidays | 11 days |
| Salary | 13-month salary |
| Health Insurance | Statutory |
| Working Hours | Flexible |
| Home Working | Policy available (not remote) |
| Lunch Vouchers | Digital |
Application Tips
- Highlight soil science and remediation experience – The project focuses on contaminated sites and phytomanagement.
- Show LCA/LCC knowledge – Even if limited, demonstrate familiarity with these methodologies.
- Emphasise system dynamic modelling interest – You’ll be enhancing LIST’s NBenefit$ tool.
- Mention regulatory knowledge – EU Soil Monitoring Law is specifically mentioned.
- Connect biophysical and economic dimensions – The role requires integrative thinking.
- Apply online only – Email applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Apply online using the following link:
Required documents:
- Scientific CV with contact details
- Contact details of 2 references
Applications by email will not be considered.
Deadline: July 12, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a Marie Skłodowska-Curie position? Yes, this is part of the MSCA DN RESCUE project.
- Will my application be shared with partners? Yes, applications are shared with project partners participating in the Selection Committee.
- Where is the PhD enrolment? University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy.
- Are there secondments? Yes, 12 months total across 4 institutions.
- What languages are required? English fluency required. French, German, or Luxembourgish are assets.
- Can I apply if I don’t have experience with geophysics? Basic understanding is an asset but not mandatory.
