Postdoctoral fellowship in rock slope stability
Natural Hazards (NH)
Optimizing techniques for detecting and monitoring rock instabilities using ground-based radar interferometry (GPRI)
Context. In Canada, rock instabilities are among the main geohazards encountered along transportation infrastructures. A rock failure is typically preceded by slight deformations ranging from millimeters to centimeters. Detecting these deformations could improve the effectiveness of preventive management measures. Radar interferometry appears to be the best available technology for detecting deformations of this magnitude. The company GAMMA has developed a portable ground-based radar system (GPRI), which has recently been acquired by the Laboratoire de Géomorphologie et de Gestion des Risques en Montagne (LGGRM). Four study sites have been selected for this research: rockwalls of Forillon and Mont-Saint-Pierre in eastern Quebec, Joffre Peak in British-Columbia, and the rock slopes overlooking Grise Fiord in Nunavut.
Objectives : 1) Coordinate GPRI technology development activities within the research laboratory; 2) Provide guidance and technical support of two Ph.D. candidates; and 3) Optimize GPRI’s ability to detect pre-failure deformations across various morpho-structural contexts, considering factors such as failure modes, rockwall heterogeneity, acquisition distance and angles.
Working environment and team. The postdoctoral researcher will assist Professor Francis Gauthier (LGGRM) à l’Université du Québec à Rimouski (UQAR) and will also work closely with David Didier (ELNAR, UQAR), Catherine Cloutier (Ministère des transports et mobilité durable), Jeffrey Crompton (Geological survey of Canada), Renato Macciotta (University of Alberta), Francois Charbonneau (Natural Resources Canada). An annual minimum salary of $45,000 or $33/hour is offered.
Academic background and skills. Candidate must have completed a Ph.D. in remote sensing, geomatics, engineering physics, geological engineering, physical geography, or a related field. Experience in radiometric and atmospheric correction of radar imagery, radar interferometry, and programming skills in Python/R/Matlab and knowledge of GAMMA software are an asset. Understanding French is also an asset.
To exchange information or apply (before February 14, 2025): francis_gauthier@uqar.ca or +1-418-723-1986 ext. 1014