At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking project studying Earth's and Moon's crustal evolution through hypervelocity impacts.
- Company: Collaborative research team with leading experts in geology and planetary science.
- Benefits: Mentorship from top researchers, access to advanced facilities, and opportunities for fieldwork.
- Other info: Exciting travel opportunities and collaboration with industry partners.
- Why this job: Make significant contributions to understanding planetary formation while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in geology, with expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral analysis.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
Applications are invited for a 42-month 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. PhD or equivalent is required.
Please see the linked job page for full details on skills, qualifications and specific criteria.
Locations
Job offer Senior Research Associate in Geology (Earth and Lunar Crustal Evolution) in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
Join a pioneering research team at the forefront of geology, where you will engage in groundbreaking studies on Earth's and the Moon's crustal evolution. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and personal growth, supported by expert mentorship and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Located in a vibrant academic environment, this role offers unique opportunities for fieldwork and travel, making it an ideal setting for passionate researchers eager to make significant contributions to the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Job offer 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 NERC project. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of impact melts and lunar samples. We recommend having a few insightful questions ready to show your genuine interest in the project and its goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨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 the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Job offer 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 highlights your expertise in igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. We want to see how your skills align with the project’s focus on impact melts and lunar samples, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant experiences!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this project and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear connection to the research goals.
Showcase Collaborative Spirit:Since this role involves working closely with others, highlight any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated on research projects. We value teamwork, so let us know how you can contribute to our collaborative science approach!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of igneous petrogenesis and mineral microanalysis. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like electron microscopy and isotope geochemistry, as these are crucial for the role. Showing that you understand the project's focus on impact melting will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working closely with a team, so be prepared to talk about your experience in collaborative research. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in the past, especially in projects that required detailed analytical work or fieldwork.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and its goals. Inquire about the methodologies they plan to use or the potential challenges they foresee. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the project aligns with your own research aspirations.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Since the role may involve travel and fieldwork, emphasise your flexibility and willingness to adapt to different environments. Share any relevant experiences where you've had to adjust your approach or work in diverse settings, which will demonstrate your readiness for the dynamic nature of this research.
