At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on lunar and terrestrial geology with advanced analytical techniques.
- Company: Join the University of Portsmouth, a leader in academic research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Experience a dynamic work environment with mentorship and opportunities for fieldwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in geology while collaborating with top experts and cutting-edge facilities.
- Qualifications: PhD in geology or related field with expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral analysis.
The predicted salary is between 35608 - 39906 £ per year.
Position: Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution)
Employer: University of Portsmouth
Location: Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Sector: Academic
Contract Type: Contract
Duration: 42-month position
Salary: £35,608 - £39,906 per annum
Benefits:
- Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
- Family‑friendly policies supporting flexible working.
- Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
- Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- Staff wellbeing programmes.
- Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
- Discounted learning.
- Start‑up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.
- Additional benefits available upon request.
Responsibilities:
- Independent research on the petrogenesis of impact melts and lunar samples using an integrated sample‑based, theoretical and potentially field‑based approach.
- Develop expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis; bring one or more of microstructural analysis, isotope geochemistry and/or thermodynamic modelling.
- Work under the guidance of the Principal Investigator and alongside project co‑leads.
- Utilise leading facilities, including electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), femtosecond laser‑ablation ICP‑MS/MS and MC‑ICP‑MS at Portsmouth, EPMA and thermodynamic modelling at Birkbeck, and NanoSIMS at the Open University.
- Some travel to collaborators and sample repositories is required, with optional fieldwork in Sudbury, Ontario and other terrestrial impact structures.
- Collaborate with project partner Vale Base Metals to explore implications of impact melt sheet evolution for world‑class Ni‑Cu‑PGE sulfide ore formation.
- Mentorship will be provided by the Project Lead and co‑leads to develop complementary skills.
Qualifications:
- PhD in geology or a related discipline.
- Expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis.
- Experience or capability in microstructural analysis, isotope geochemistry and/or thermodynamic modelling.
- Experience working with high‑precision analytical instruments and data interpretation will be valued.
Application Deadline: 5 July 2026
How to Apply: Contact James Darling with any questions or to discuss the position. Application forms and further details are available upon request.
Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Portsmouth employer: European Geosciences Union (EGU)
The University of Portsmouth is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of geology. With competitive salaries, generous leave entitlements, and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing and professional development, employees are supported in their growth while enjoying a family-friendly work culture. The unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on Earth and lunar crustal evolution, alongside access to state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from leading experts, makes this position particularly rewarding for those passionate about advancing their careers in academia.
Contact Details:
European Geosciences Union (EGU) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the geology field, especially those who might know about opportunities at the University of Portsmouth. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! If you have experience with high-precision analytical instruments, make sure to highlight that in conversations. We want to see how your expertise aligns with the research goals at Portsmouth.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to tailor your approach specifically for the Senior Research Associate position.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Senior Research Associate role, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Research Experience:When detailing your research background, focus on any independent projects you've undertaken, especially those involving impact melts or lunar samples. We love seeing how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Highlight Collaborative Skills:Since this role involves working closely with project co-leads and partners, make sure to mention any teamwork experiences. We value collaboration, so share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in your field.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at European Geosciences Union (EGU)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. Be ready to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the role. Familiarise yourself with the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like isotope geochemistry and thermodynamic modelling.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working closely with a Principal Investigator and project co-leads. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any teamwork experiences that showcase your ability to work well with others, especially in research settings.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research projects and the facilities you'll be using. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute. Ask about the mentorship opportunities and how the team collaborates with external partners like Vale Base Metals.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Since this role may involve fieldwork and practical applications, think about how you would approach real-world scenarios related to lunar samples or impact melts. Be ready to discuss your problem-solving strategies and how you would apply your skills in a practical context.
