Heritage Science Laboratory Ljubljana is pleased to be offering a 4-year fully funded PhD position, starting on 1 Oct 2025. Project description This PhD project focuses on developing an advanced, non-destructive colorimetric sensor array for material characterization in heritage institutions. Such sensors, established e.g. in clinical breath analysis, have also shown promise in heritage science. The challenge will consist of developing a colorimetric sensor to detect volatile organic compounds (VOC) emitted from heritage materials e.g. plastics and paper. Based on the existing research linking VOC emissions to material composition and degradation, the collected data will enable the identification of the types of plastic material, as well as the determination of material properties of paper. Machine learning methods will be employed to analyse the sensor data, identify patterns, and develop predictive models for material identification, classification and assessment of degradation. The sensors will be validated in library and museum collections. Environmental factors, including temperature, relative humidity, and light exposure, will also be assessed for their impact on data quality. Colour change will be monitored using imaging devices like DSLRs, scanners, hyperspectral imaging cameras, or mobile cameras, with validation through spectrophotometry or spectroscopy and using calibration targets, ensuring reliable and reproducible results. Machine learning algorithms could also aid in refining colorimetric analysis by improving accuracy in colour interpretation. The researcher will be part of the Next Generation Heritage Science research project (Challenge 4) and associated with the Non-destructive Analysis and Diagnostics Programme Group. On completion, the researcher will have an excellent understanding of experimental and imaging techniques as well as advanced methods of data and image analysis. Supervision The PhD researcher will be supervised by Prof. Dr. Matija Strlič in collaboration with Dr. Hend Mahgoub. The candidates are invited to contact the supervisors to seek clarification regarding the application process, the project, our research group, the University or any other questions. The Ideal Candidate The candidate should have a strong background in experimental sciences including heritage science, particularly desirable is knowledge of analytical, environmental, or material chemistry. A solid understanding of statistics, data analysis, and possibly machine learning techniques is desirable. Familiarity with, e.g., Python, R, or MATLAB would be particularly beneficial. Experience of working with heritage organisations would be a bonus. There is no geographical restriction, Slovenian, EU and international applicants are all equally welcome to apply. Candidates must have a minimum average MSc grade of 80%. How to Apply The PhD studentship is offered in the frame of the “Young Researcher” funding programme of the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency. The call has been published by the University of Ljubljana and is available here, along with the instructions on how to apply and other technical details. As part of the application, candidates are expected to submit a CV outlining their previous research experience, highlighting expertise in experimental research, data processing and modelling techniques, as well as their research bibliography. A letter of motivation is also required. Letters of recommendation can be attached. The “Young Researcher” Grant The grant covers gross salary (including medical and social insurance), fees and a personal research grant to cover material and travel costs. University of Ljubljana and Our Group The Heritage Science Laboratory Ljubljana is a highly interdisciplinary, international research group. Our working language is English, although all international employees can avail themselves of free Slovenian language courses. Please also consult the University of Ljubljana International Students page. University of Ljubljana is an equal opportunities employer. |
