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- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on critical mineral supply and collaborate with industry partners.
- Company: Durham University, a leader in Earth Sciences with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a dynamic environment, and contribute to low carbon energy solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the field of geology and help shape the future of energy supply.
- Qualifications: PhD in Structural Geology or related field with quantitative research experience.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; join a supportive and inclusive team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) for a fixed term (6 months) to work on the 'Li-berating the subsurface: A Crystalline Reservoir Approach to Critical Mineral Supply' project. The aim of this project is to translate research methods pioneered by Durham University Earth Sciences (DU ES) on crystalline basement rock hosted oil reservoirs to critical mineral resource supply and define their commercial potential. The work will assist partners Weardale Lithium Ltd (WLL) to refine their estimate of mineral resource/reserves, derisk future appraisal drilling and play a role in developing low carbon energy supply chains in NE England.
The PDRA will work with Prof Ken McCaffrey as the project lead and will engage with collaborators at DU ES and the industrial partner WLL. Experience conducting quantitative research including fracture data collection, management, and analysis is essential. Excellent initiative, flexibility in work style, communication, and teamwork are highly desirable. This role could be partly hybrid with some tasks being carried out online, but capacity to carry out in-person activities is necessary. Candidates are expected to hold a PhD in Structural Geology or related discipline, including experience of fracture description and statistical analysis methods. The intended start date is April 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Key responsibilities:- To conduct collaborative research to meet the objectives of the project under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
- To conduct primary data collection on drill-cores and compilation of data on fracture characteristics; liaison with the industrial partner; literature review and synthesis; conceptual model development and investigating the translation potential of the research to commercial applications.
- To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include: research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
- To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
- To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
- To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
- To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding.
- To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
- To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
- To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
This post is fixed term for 6 months duration because funding is available for this fixed period only. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1st April 2026.
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Earth Sciences in Bath employer: InsideHigherEd
Contact Detail:
InsideHigherEd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Earth Sciences in Bath
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups. Engaging with professionals can lead to opportunities that aren’t advertised, and you might just find someone who knows about the PDRA role at Durham.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your quantitative research experience and any relevant projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills in fracture data collection and analysis can contribute to the project’s success.
✨Prepare for Interviews
If you land an interview, practice answering questions about your research methods and teamwork experiences. Think of examples where you’ve shown initiative or solved problems creatively, as these traits are highly desirable for the PDRA position.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the exciting work at Durham.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Earth Sciences in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in structural geology and fracture analysis. We want to see how your skills align with the project goals, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant research!
Show Off Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key for this role, let us know about your collaborative experiences. Share examples of how you've worked with others in research settings, especially if you’ve liaised with industry partners before.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at InsideHigherEd
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your research area, especially regarding crystalline basement rock and its applications. Be prepared to discuss your previous work, particularly any quantitative research or fracture data analysis you've conducted.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with both academic and industrial partners, highlight your teamwork experience. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated on projects, especially in a research setting, and how you’ve communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical expertise, particularly around structural geology and statistical analysis methods. Brush up on relevant concepts and be ready to explain how you would apply them to the project’s objectives.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
The job requires adaptability, especially with hybrid working arrangements. Be ready to discuss how you manage your time and resources effectively, and provide examples of when you’ve taken the initiative to solve problems or improve processes in your past roles.