Research Project / Research Group Description:
The Azores present hydrothermal resources that could attract tourists seeking the benefits of thermal therapy. However, the current offer is limited and what makes it unique has not been studied yet. In this project, we will characterize the tourists currently seeking thermal therapy in the Azores; study the properties of local thermal waters; and some health parameters associated with improved well-being as a result of thermal therapy. This project will promote the creation of a portfolio of opportunities for local tourist agents and hospitality industry. The overarching aim of the project is to provide the industry with improved in-depth knowledge of the target population segment for health tourism as well as with the tools to increase the national and international competitiveness of the Azorean thermal therapy products.
The strategic objective of the HOT project is to build a partnership for the development of a globally competitive Health and Wellness Tourism offer in the island of São Miguel (Azores), based on a collaborative platform. The focus of HOT is on the component of the supply and demand of wellness treatments and, therefore, within the health tourism area.
The research project will be developed in the Institute of Investigation on Volcanology and Risk Assessment (IVAR), a multidisciplinary research unit of the University of the Azores. The IVAR’s mission is the development and promotion of science and technology in the field of volcanology and related fields in order to understand the volcanological phenomena and risk assessment to those directly or indirectly associated. In the Institute, the Medical Geology unit focus its research on studying the impacts of geologic materials and processes on animal and human health, bringing together the geosciences, biomedical, and public health communities with the goal of finding practical solutions to environmental health problems.
Job position description:
The Medical Geology unit invites intellectually engaged and motivated students to apply to our doctoral program. We particularly seek applicants in the fields of biology, toxicology, epidemiology, geochemistry and hydrology. The candidates should have intuitive problem solving skills and display confidence in practical assignments that involve volcanic activities.
It will be a candidate responsibility to:
- Study the relationship between an organization’s projects, and its environmental impact and sustainability.
- Develop new methods for biological and geological analysis and data collection with the least harmful environmental impact.
- Analyse biological, geological, geochemical and geophysical data collected by tests and surveys.
- Manage sampling and reports.
- Learn innovative and modernized methods of work by attending workshops and courses.
- Deliver pertinent feedback and insight into work projects to management through regular meetings.
The PhD candidate must have:
- Degree in Biology, Health Sciences, Geology or Geoscience (essential).
- Adaptable to work in various environmental conditions outdoors.
- Knowledge of geology and geological factors of the specified location.
- Practical experience in collecting and analysing biological information such as spirometry data and cytological sampling.
- Practical experience in collecting and analysing geological information such as water, soil and rock data.
- Comply strictly with safety codes, standards and procedures.
- Ability to write accurate reports on data collection and analysis.
- Analytical thinker with strong conceptual and research skills.
This research will contribute to larger project goals by interfacing with collaborator-run models and through brainstorming workshops with local, regional, and national stakeholders.