Preliminary Call Deadline: 19 April 2026

PhD Topic 1: Solid-phase speciation and mobility of trace metal(loid)s (Cd, In, Ga, Ge) in sulfidic mine wastes

This project will investigate how the solid-phase speciation of trace metal(loid)s controls their mobility and stability in sulfidic mine wastes. The research will focus on the identification of host secondary minerals and the processes governing element release during oxidation of primary sulfides. The study will combine fieldwork at historical polymetallic mining sites (Czech Republic, Greece, Portugal) with advanced mineralogical and geochemical methods, including microanalysis and spectroscopy. The goal is to improve understanding of the environmental behavior and resource potential of critical metal(loid)s.

Supervisor: Prof. Petr Drahota (petr.drahota@natur.cuni.cz)

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Topic 2: Behavior of used photovoltaic panels in an exogenous environment

Crystalline silicon solar panels are the most widely used type of photovoltaics worldwide. Their degradation can lead to release of toxic trace elements, making them emerging contaminants. The proposed topic of PhD will study weathering of used photovoltaic panels in soils and the release of toxic and critical elements. It includes both laboratory and in-situ experiments under different geochemical and environmental conditions (e.g., soil type, pH, redox conditions). The work involves geochemical analyses and isotope approaches to understand elements mobility, transformation, and pathways in the soil environment.

Supervisor: Dr. Maria Vaňková (maria.vankova@natur.cuni.cz)

Co-Advisor: Prof. Martin Mihaljevič

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