PIF2024 - HISTORIC GYPSUM PLASTERWORK – LEARNING FROM THE PAST (GYPS) PID2023-149367NA-I00

4-year PhD contract as part of the project HISTORIC GYPSUM PLASTERWORK – LEARNING FROM THE PAST (GYPS) financed by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/European Union. The project (Reference PID2023-149367NA-I00) investigates the underlying technological influence on performance, durability, and alteration processes undergone by historic plasterwork in order to establish adequate future conservation treatments and design compatible gypsum-based materials for heritage conservation and sustainable new construction. The idea is driven by historical evidence showing the wide-ranging possibilities of traditional gypsum for exterior and structural applications in rural and monumental architecture. The main objective of this project is the study of historic gypsum plasterwork, its mineralogical composition, textural and physico-mechanical properties and their relation with ancient plaster making technology. The fellow will be expected to enroll in the PhD program Ciencias de la Tierra at the University of Granada and will be supervised by Dr. K. Elert and Dr. G. Cultrone. Candidate's profile: Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Geology, Heritage Conservation, Materials and Conservation Science, Architecture or related fields. Previous experience with the analysis and testing of heritage materials, scientific publication, and good English skills will be valued. Spanish knowledge of advantage. Starting date: Spring 2025