At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking project studying Earth's and Moon's crustal evolution through impact melting.
- Company: University of Portsmouth, a global leader in research and innovation.
- 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 sciences while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD required; expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral analysis is essential.
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 (james.darling@port.ac.uk) with questions and to discuss the position.
Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in 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 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 relates to both Earth and lunar crustal evolution. 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 and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance! We want to see your application come through directly, so make sure you hit that apply button and showcase your skills in geology and research.
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 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 Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of igneous petrogenesis, mineral microanalysis, and any other relevant areas mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your expertise confidently will show that you're not just a good fit for the role, but also genuinely passionate about the subject.
✨Research the Project
Dive deep into the NERC 'Pushing the Frontiers' project and understand its goals and methodologies. Familiarise yourself with the techniques like electron microscopy and thermodynamic modelling that will be used. This will help you ask insightful questions and demonstrate your enthusiasm for contributing to the research.
✨Prepare for Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with various project leads and collaborators, think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked in a team. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a collaborative environment and what you can bring to the table.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the project's future directions, the facilities you'll be using, or even the potential for fieldwork. Asking questions shows that you're engaged and serious about the position, plus it gives you a chance to learn more about the role.
