The Geological Institute of America (GIA) recently put out an announcement inviting researchers to apply for Postdoctoral Fellowships in Mineralogy, Materials Science and Gemmology.

“Qualified candidates are invited to apply for Richard T. Liddicoat Postdoctoral Research Fellowships at GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) Carlsbad, Calif. and New York campuses,” GIA announced. “The one-to-two year fellowships encourage early career scientists to pursue full-time academic research in mineralogy, geology, physics, materials science and other fields related to gemmology – the study of diamonds, coloured gemstones, pearls and their treatment.”

Apart from what it is termed as a “competitive” stipend, the fellowship includes research funding and travel subsidies for “approved offsite research work”. It also includes an array of health benefits and reimbursement for relocation expenses. 

Though generally the tenure of the Fellowships is for one year, they may be extended for another year based on mutual agreement.

“Liddicoat Postdoctoral Research Fellows conduct creative, independent, publishable research and are strongly encouraged to collaborate with GIA scientists as well as outside research institutions and universities,” GIA said.

Dr. Wuyi Wang, director of research and development for GIA commented: “Our postdoctoral fellows have the opportunity to conduct research that focuses on fundamental scientific problems in diamond geology, defect physics and synthesis. GIA’s fellowship programme  provides unique access to some of the most specialised resources and researchers related to diamonds and other gems.”   

The GIA said that though the start date of each fellowship is flexible, accepted candidates should begin by January  31, 2018. One of the stipulations of the institute is that applicants must have received their Ph.D. in a relevant field by the start date and preferably within the last three years. 

 Applications should reach GIA  by April 30, 2017. More information is  available at GIA.edu/research-careers.