The expertise of the Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory on Sustainable Engineering and Ecodesign (LIRIDE) focuses on life cycle impact assessment. Internationally recognized for its scientific research, LIRIDE supports industry, SMEs, and organizations in their commitment to true sustainable development supported by life cycle assessment and the circular economy. Located at the University of Sherbrooke (Canada), LIRIDE is seeking applications for the following position.
About the role
Project title: Dynamic MFA of large-scale adoption of bio-sourced epoxies for novel microelectronics packaging solutions.
​
This PhD project is part of a larger consortium initiative covering the full bio-sourced epoxy value chain. It spans from forestry-derived raw materials to epoxy production, application in commercial products, and end-of-life treatment. Nine industry and public-sector partners working on this value chain are actively involved. The initiative aims to train highly qualified personnel (HQP), from college students to research associates. Training is provided by a multidisciplinary team of ten faculty members, scientists, and professionals. LIRIDE will provide expertise on the life cycle environmental benefits of bio-based epoxy innovative solutions.
This project focuses on the potential of novel microelectronics packaging solutions to transform the technology of whole sectors of the economy. It aims to assess how their large-scale adoption could reshape the resources–energy trade-offs and affect environmental performance. Using a dynamic material flow analysis (MFA) approach, the project will model the flows of materials over time, capturing production, use, and end-of-life stages, while tracking changes in resource demand, energy use, and material purity. Contamination and losses during recycling will be explicitly considered. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will complement this by evaluating broader environmental impacts and trade-offs. Together, these methods will provide a systems-level view of how bio-based epoxies influence industrial metabolism, resource efficiency, and the transition to sustainable packaging. The framework will be applied to two case studies, offering insight into practical opportunities and constraints.
Qualifications
Your qualifications should include:
-
A master's level university degree in civil, chemical, mechanical or environmental engineering, or similar studies with excellent grades.
-
A strong interest in modelling and in programming (ex. Python) would be an important advantage.
​
Your admission will be subject to the standard rules of the University of Sherbrooke (funding assured for the entire duration of the PhD project). The project will start as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement.
You are expected to contribute to teaching and research activities of the laboratory up to a maximum of 20% of your working time.
Daily work
The work will be carried out within an interdisciplinary team of LIRIDE, in close collaboration with the various stakeholders in the initiative. The team will consist of two PhD students and researchers. In addition, an integral part of your work is to publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.
Admission
We look forward to receiving your online application including:
Resume
Credentials
Cover letter
Two references
We will begin interviewing candidates as soon as a sufficient number of applications are received.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.