Job Title: Research Intern – AI-Numerical Modelling for Sustainable Mining, School of Engineering and Computer Science

Type of Appointment: Grant appointment until December 31, 2027

Salary : $39,960 per year

Vacancy Status: New position

This position is designated as one that requires a variable work schedule. However, it is understood that your work week will consist of 35 hours.

Responsibilities The Research Intern will contribute to an applied research project focused primarily on numerical modelling of tire-road interaction and tire-induced microplastic generation under underground mining conditions. Approximately 80% of the research will involve numerical modelling using appropriate numerical modelling software, such as the ITASCA software suite, particularly Particle Flow Code (PFC). The study will focus on a limited and logically selected set of representative mining conditions that can reasonably be investigated within the oneyear internship.

The intern will develop and calibrate numerical models, conduct selected parametric simulations, and analyze the resulting data. Artificial intelligence and machine-learning methods may be used as a supporting component and are expected to represent no more than approximately 20% of the research work.

- Develop and calibrate numerical models of tire-road interaction, tire wear, and particle detachment under underground mining conditions using appropriate numerical modelling software, such as the ITASCA software suite, particularly Particle Flow Code (PFC).
- Conduct numerical simulations for a limited and logically selected set of representative mining conditions and parameters appropriate to the one-year project duration.
- Analyze simulation results and identify the main parameters affecting tire wear and tire-induced particle generation.
- Organize selected simulation results into a structured dataset and, where appropriate, apply limited artificial intelligence or machine-learning methods to support prediction and interpretation. AI-related activities will represent no more than approximately 20% of the overall research work.
- Document the numerical modelling methodology and results and contribute to technical reports, presentations, and research publications.

Qualifications

- Master's degree in Mining Engineering, Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a closely related field with relevant numerical modelling experience.
- Demonstrated experience in numerical modelling of mining, rock mechanics, geomechanics, geotechnical, or closely related engineering problems is mandatory.
- Experience with numerical modelling software applicable to mining, rock mechanics, geomechanics,



or related engineering problems is required. Experience with the ITASCA software suite, particularly Particle Flow Code (PFC), is considered an asset. Applicants from other disciplines must also demonstrate relevant numerical modelling experience in rock mechanics, geomechanics, or related engineering applications.
- A minimum of one(1) year of relevant research or technical experience involving numerical modelling of mining, rock mechanics, geomechanics, geotechnical, or closely related engineering problems.
- Experience obtained through a master's thesis, graduate research, research assistantship, or relevant professional work may be considered. Experience with Particle Flow Code (PFC), Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC), or other ITASCA numerical modelling software is considered an asset.
- Strong knowledge of numerical modelling and computational methods applied to mining, rock mechanics, or geomechanics.
- Experience with Particle Flow Code (PFC), Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC), or other ITASCA numerical modelling software is considered an asset.
- Understanding of model development, calibration, validation, and parametric analysis.
- Knowledge of underground mining and/or rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering.
- Basic programming, data analysis, artificial intelligence, or machine-learning experience is considered an asset but is not a substitute for the required numerical modelling background.
- Strong analytical, technical writing, documentation, and scientific communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research environment.
- Ability to work fluently (verbal and written) in both official languages, French and English, is an asset.

Applications are being accepted to fill an active vacancy within the University We are aware that some applicants are experiencing difficulty using our careers portal. Should you complete an application through our online form and receive an error, please submit your application to [email protected] The official University hours of operation shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, during, and including, the months from September to April, and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m Monday through Friday during and including May to August., amounting to thirty-three and three-quarter (33.75) hours per week.





At Laurentian University, we recognize that work-life balance is essential for both personal well-being and skilled success. Our policy offers employees some flexibility to better balance personal needs while maintaining effective service delivery.

DISCLAIMER The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the job incumbent. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the position. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Laurentian

University is an equal opportunity employer that is dedicated to maintaining a fair and equitable work environment. All of our employees and job applicants will be employed solely on the basis of their abilities and qualifications and following the applicable collective agreements where required.

HOW TO APPLY

Laurentian University welcomes all candidates authorized to work in Canada and who meet the minimum qualifications required to apply for this position. Please submit your application on our website and ensure that your cover letter and resume both specify the job title of the position that you are applying for. If you are a current employee of Laurentian University, please ensure that you notate accordingly in your application.

Laurentian University is an inclusive and welcoming community committed to employment equity. Applications are encouraged from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions. Laurentian University’s bilingualism policy provides a provision regarding the language requirement for persons self-identifying as First Nations, Métis or Inuit.

All applicants are thanked for their interest in this position. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If contacted and you require a disability related accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources and Organizational Development Department.

Laurentian

University is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free experience to applicants with accessibility needs. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage during the recruitment process. Please contact the Human Resources and Organizational Development Office at [email protected] for more information.

Please note that candidates invited for an interview will be required to submit three professional references.

📌 Research Intern – AI-Numerical Modelling for Sustainable Mining, School of Engineering and Computer Science (Greater Sudbury)
🏢 Laurentian University/ Université Laurentienne
📍 Greater Sudbury