At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on igneous petrology and geochemistry of Mount Paektu rocks.
- Company: Join a collaborative team at Birkbeck, University of London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 31 days leave, flexible working, and generous benefits.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make significant contributions to volcanic research with international collaboration.
- Qualifications: PhD experience in igneous petrology and geochemistry required.
The predicted salary is between 44247 - 50379 € per year.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to work on the igneous petrology and geochemistry of rocks from Mount Paektu and its basaltic volcanism. The work is funded by the Richard Lounsbery Foundation. You will be part of a team working with colleagues at the University of Cambridge, DPRK, and China, within the Mount Paektu Research Centre (MPRC), Department of Earth and Planetary Science.
Key Responsibilities
- Work with a pre-existing collection of magmatic products from Mt. Paektu and associated vents.
- Identify data gaps and carry out new analytical work to fully understand this magmatic system, including whole‑rock, SEM, EPMA sample characterisation, and isotopic measurements such as Ar‑Ar dating.
- Liaise with external facilities, coordinate laboratory analyses, and travel as needed.
Qualifications
- Experience as a PhD student or PDRA with expertise in igneous petrology and geochemistry.
Contract Details
- Fixed‑term, 12 months beginning June 2026; full‑time 35 hours per week.
- The role may involve national and international travel; flexible and remote work possible, but the PDRA is expected to be on site at least some of the time.
Salary and Benefits
- Grade 7 of the College's London Pay Scale: £44,247 rising to £50,379 per annum.
- Birkbeck offers a competitive salary and pension scheme, 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements and generous benefits.
Enquiries
Contact Dr Eleanor Jennings, Senior Lecturer, at e.jennings@bbk.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 3926 1798.
EEO Statement
We welcome applicants from all sections of the community. The College is committed to improving gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding an Athena SWAN award and operating Disability Confident & Mindful Employer schemes.
Postdoctoral Researcher employer: Birkbeck Sport Business Centre
Birkbeck, University of London, is an exceptional employer for a Postdoctoral Researcher, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of Earth and Planetary Science. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including 31 days of paid leave, and flexible working arrangements, Birkbeck prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, making it an ideal environment for researchers looking to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community.
Contact Detail:
Birkbeck Sport Business Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of igneous petrology and geochemistry. Attend conferences or seminars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect postdoc position!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous research, publications, and any relevant projects. This will help you stand out during interviews and give potential employers a clear picture of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to get comfortable discussing your research and answering common interview questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time for the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting opportunities, including the Postdoctoral Researcher role. Make sure to check it out and submit your application directly – it’s the best way to ensure your CV lands in the right hands!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in igneous petrology and geochemistry. We want to see how your skills align with the specific responsibilities of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or research!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the subject shine through! In your written application, express why you’re excited about working on the Mount Paektu project and how it fits into your career goals. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about their field.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the important bits.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials properly. Plus, it helps us keep track of applications efficiently. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birkbeck Sport Business Centre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on igneous petrology and geochemistry. Familiarise yourself with the specific magmatic products from Mount Paektu and be ready to discuss any preliminary data you might have encountered. This shows your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about analytical techniques like whole-rock analysis, SEM, EPMA, and isotopic measurements. Be prepared to explain how you would approach identifying data gaps and what new analytical work you would propose. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge.
✨Show Team Spirit
Since you'll be working with colleagues from various institutions, highlight your experience in collaborative research. Share examples of how you've successfully liaised with external facilities or coordinated laboratory analyses in the past. This will show that you're a team player who can thrive in a collaborative environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the ongoing projects at the Mount Paektu Research Centre or the types of challenges they face with the current dataset. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
