4 PhD positions in Volcanology at the University of Liverpool, UK
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4 PhD positions in Volcanology at the University of Liverpool, UK
The volcanology group at the University of Liverpool is currently offering 4 funded doctoral studentships on the rheology of magma and the study of volcanic eruptions. The positions are part of a large research initiative on Strain Localisation in Magmas (SLiM) funded by the European Research Council.
SLiM aims to constrain the dynamics and mechanics of magma ascent in conduits. To this end, a series of volcanic systems (in Mexico, Montserrat, Japan, New-Zealand, Guatemala, Indonesia) will be investigated using a range of novel experimental and analytical techniques available in Earth Sciences. The projects are primarily experimental with a strong component of field work and may contain aspects of numerical modelling. As such, we seek candidates with a range of skills to join a truly multidisciplinary effort.
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
1. Dome building-eruptions: a competition between gas and magma
Aim: In this project, the candidate will investigate the developments of permeable structures (e.g., shear zones, faults/fractures, tuffisites, porous networks, etc.) that physically (via buoyancy) and rheologically (via deformation mechanisms) drive different modes of lava dome extrusions. Lava dome structures will be mapped in the field and analysed in the laboratory. The permeability of dome structures will be measured and high-temperature experiments will be performed to assess the dynamics of the processes that produce the observed structures, constrain their role in the deformation, and correlate it to seismic data monitored at active volcanoes.
Required skills: The candidate should demonstrate strong mapping abilities and have a solid background in volcanology and/or structural geology. Prior knowledge in rock mechanics, magma rheology or high-temperature petrology would be an asset.
Knowledge of MatLab would also be favoured as the candidate should also be willing to integrate the findings into a numerical model to evaluate monitored geophysical signals.
2. Dynamic rheology of ascending magma
Aim: In this project, the candidate will experimentally test the rheological response of magma undergoing volatile exsolution and crystallisation when subjected to decompression. Effusive and explosive products of dome eruptions will be sampled, described and analysed, and the petrographic character will be replicated experimentally to constrain extrusion rates and associated rheological changes. A range of domes with different initial geochemical compositions will be tested to assess the decompression/viscosity path that drives different styles of volcanic eruptions. Collaboration with modellers will help refine rheological models of magma ascent in conduits.
Required skills: The candidate should have a background in petrology and/or geochemistry and should be willing to conduct field work as well as determined to carry on complex petrology/rheology experiments and analytical work. Prior experience with high-temperature, high-pressure experiments is favoured.
3. Deformation mechanisms in magmas: a crystal constraint
Aim: In this project, the candidate will assess the controls of different deformation mechanisms (viscous, plastic & brittle) and petrological phenomena (hydration/dehydration reactions, melting/crystallisation) on magma ascent. In recent years, efforts have focused on the viscous and brittle contributions. Here, we wish to emphasise the contribution of crystals as they may act as geothermobarometer and/or a strain marker during magma ascent. This project will combine analytical, experimental and some field work to constrain crystal plasticity and crystal stability observed in lava domes and shallow conduit structures (e.g., shear zones and fault zones). Crystal plasticity and stability observed in the field and developed in experiments will be analysed via electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Novel high-temperature deformation tests in-situ in the SEM+EBSD system will be used to track the evolution of crystals in magma.
Required skills: This project requires a candidate with a strong background in crystallography or mineral physics. Prior knowledge of EBSD would be an asset, as well as a willingness to further use of the technique in volcanology.
4. Magma failure and healing
Aim: In this project, the candidate will constrain the architecture of the fracture network associated with magma failure and assess how fractures may heal and gain strength. Fractures and faults will be examined/mapped in lava domes and shallow conduit environments. The observations will be coupled to experiments in which magma will be forced to failure and fracturing will be monitored via acoustic emissions and imaged via thermography. This experimental work will be coupled to the experimental/ analytical study of particle sintering in water vapour environments, which will be linked to processes in natural volcanic environments.
Required skills: The candidate should demonstrate mapping abilities and have a solid background in volcanology, seismology and/or structural geology. Prior knowledge of material sciences is preferred and computing skills (e.g., MatLab or Python) is required.
VOLCANOLOGY IN LIVERPOOL
The volcanology group at the University of Liverpool counts 14 members and the laboratory is equipped with a unique rheological, mechanical and analytical facility for the study of volcanic material at high-temperature and/or pressure. The group fosters a strong synergy and harbour active collaboration with many volcanology / rock physics laboratories, research institutions and volcano observatories worldwide. Note that our group and facility is brand new and we are currently building our website which will be up and running in the course of Autumn.
APPLICATION
Candidates from any nation may apply. The candidates should be proficient in English and demonstrate great written/oral skills. The selected candidates should start between January and October 2014 and applications will be accepted until all positioned are filled.
To apply, send a CV, a research statement, an academic transcript and contact information for 2 referees. The research statement should include a description of undergraduate research projects/studies undertaken as well as research interests for the future.
For further details and questions, or to apply, please contact Yan Lavallée at: volcano@xxxxxxxxx
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