A research opportunity in the field of spectroscopy and imaging
ISPC CNR, the coordinator of the Italian node of E-RIHS, has opened a position for a research grant on “Terahertz for the study of stratigraphy in Cultural Heritage”.
Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and imaging is a non-destructive, non-contact, non-invasive technology emerging as a tool for the analysis of cultural heritage. THz Time-Domain Spectroscopy (TDS) techniques can retrieve information from different layers within a stratified sample. The most explored topics particularly using time-domain terahertz systems, include stratigraphic examinations of wood-panel paintings and plaster-covered wall paintings. However, investigations have been expanded to include terahertz imaging of ceramic vessels, corroded metal objects and papyrus sheets. The data can be displayed through a series of parametric images mapping the imaging area with different arguments as parameters (maximum/minimum amplitude, peak to peak, frequency integration etc.) or as a cross-section. In this case, if no sample of the wall material is taken, an assumption must be made on the nature of the material constituting the under-layer to determine the thickness and approximate depth location of the different layers.
The research grant will have a duration of 12 months, renewable for up to 36 months and, following any renewals, cannot, in any case, have a total term of more than six years.
Required graduations are in the following fields: Telecommunications, Electronics, Computer Science, Materials Science or Engineering, Architecture and Construction Engineering, Conservation of architectural and environmental heritage, Conservation and restoration of cultural heritage, Archaeology.
To participate in the selection, the candidate must have at least two years of documented experience in the research topic, particularly in the field of electromagnetic diagnostics, with particular reference to:
1) the development and/or use of strategies for processing data acquired from operating technologies in the frequency range that extends from microwaves to X-rays
2) the context of data processing, particularly in the development of procedures for extracting useful information from the received signal
3) the field of conservation of cultural heritage, with particular reference to the use of survey technologies for the non-invasive characterization of valuable artefacts and the study of materials.
All the graduations obtained abroad (including PhD, Masters, and so on) must be previously recognized in Italy according to the legislation in force on the subject (information on the Ministry of University and Scientific Research www.miur.it).
The deadline for application is on October 8, 2021
The workplace will be at the Naples branch of ISPC