At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking project on Earth's and Moon's crustal evolution through hypervelocity impact research.
- Company: University of Portsmouth, a global leader in innovative research and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with opportunities for fieldwork and travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in planetary science while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD required; expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference. Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavours. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success and a dedication to excellence, innovation and achievement.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
- 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.
- Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
Scope of research:
- Geochemistry, Mineralogy, Petrology & Volcanology (GMPV)
- Geodynamics (GD)
- Planetary and Solar System Sciences (PS)
Position details:
- Type: Contract
- Level: Experienced
- Required education: PhD
- Application deadline: 5 July 2026
- Posted: 18 May 2026
- Duration: 42 months
Responsibilities:
Applications are invited for a Senior Research Associate to join a NERC 'Pushing the Frontiers' project investigating the role of hypervelocity impact melting in early crustal evolution. The project connects Earth's best‑preserved impact melt sheets with lunar samples to build a unified Earth–Moon perspective on the earliest crust. Working under the guidance of the Principal Investigator and alongside the project Co‑Leads, you will play a central role in research on the petrogenesis of impact melts and lunar samples using an integrated sample‑based, theoretical and potentially field‑based approach. Applicants will bring expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis, as well as one or more of microstructural analysis, isotope geochemistry and/or thermodynamic modelling. The successful candidate will be supported to develop complementary skills through mentoring by the Project Lead, James Darling, and Co‑Leads: Eleanor Jennings (Birkbeck University of London), Mahesh Anand (The Open University) and Katherine Joy (The University of Manchester).
The project will make strong use of leading facilities and capabilities, including electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and femtosecond laser‑ablation ICP‑MS/MS and MC‑ICP‑MS at Portsmouth, EPMA and thermodynamic modelling of igneous systems at Birkbeck, and NanoSIMS at the Open University. Some travel is required (e.g. to collaborators and/or sample repositories), and there is the option of fieldwork in Sudbury, Ontario and other terrestrial impact structures. In collaboration with project partner Vale Base Metals, the project will also explore implications of impact melt sheet evolution for world‑class Ni–Cu–PGE sulfide ore formation. We welcome applications from researchers who enjoy detailed analytical work, careful interpretation, and collaborative science.
Contact:
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact James Darling with questions and to discuss the position.
Locations
Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: European Geosciences Union
The University of Portsmouth is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of ambition, responsibility, and openness, making it an ideal place for researchers passionate about geology and planetary sciences. With competitive salaries, generous leave entitlements, and a strong commitment to employee development through mentoring and training opportunities, staff can thrive both professionally and personally. Located in a vibrant city, the university offers excellent facilities and a supportive work environment, ensuring that every team member can contribute meaningfully to groundbreaking research in Earth and lunar crustal evolution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the geology field, especially those who might know about the Senior Research Associate role. A friendly chat can lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise yourself with the research on hypervelocity impact melting and how it connects Earth and lunar samples. Show us you’re passionate and knowledgeable!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Research Associate role. Highlight your expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis, as well as any relevant experience with geochemistry or thermodynamic modelling. We want to see how your skills align with our project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for geology and research, and mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to hypervelocity impact melting. Let your personality shine through!
Showcase Collaborative Spirit:Since this role involves working closely with others, make sure to highlight your collaborative experiences. Whether it’s teamwork in research or partnerships in fieldwork, we want to know how you thrive in a team environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing university culture there.
How to prepare for a job interview at European Geosciences Union
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your research area, especially regarding igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. Familiarise yourself with recent studies related to hypervelocity impact melting and how they connect Earth and lunar samples.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with analytical techniques like electron microscopy and isotope geochemistry. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied these methods in past projects, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with a team, highlight your collaborative experiences. Share specific instances where you’ve successfully worked with others on research projects, and how you contributed to achieving common goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and its objectives. Inquire about the potential for fieldwork or collaborations with other institutions, as this shows your genuine interest in the role and the research environment at the University of Portsmouth.
