PhD Position: Human-Centered Design and Intervention for Miner Self-Escape

We are looking for a motivated PhD student to join our project, funded by the Centers for Disease Control’s National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, on improving miner self-escape through human-centered design of Refuge Alternatives (RAs) and Self-Contained Self-Rescuers (SCSRs). The ideal candidate holds a BS or MS in Mining Engineering or a closely related field such as Safety, Mechanical, and Industrial/Systems Engineering, and Engineering Management or similar disciplines. Expertise in Human Factors, Industrial Design, Ergonomics, Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, along with an understanding of human systems integration, underground mining systems and an interest in human behavior, attitudes and decision-making processes are preferred skills.

The selected candidate will be enrolled in the Mining Engineering PhD program and will work closely with a research associate specializing in human factors, psychology, and decision science. Experience with quantitative analysis, surveys, interviews, or experimental methods is valued, as is familiarity with R, Python, or mixed-methods research. Strong communication skills and a willingness to travel to mine sites and work directly with miners are essential. This is a fully funded position with opportunities to publish and present your work.

Interested applicants should send a CV, any relevant work, and a 1-page cover letter communicating why they believe they are qualified for this role to ghazals@mst.edu.