Senior Research Associate in Petrological Controls on Ore Genesis
The role
We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled geoscientist to join the School of Earth Sciences at the University of Bristol. This 24-month post is funded by a NERC standard grant investigating how copper — a critical metal essential for Net Zero technologies — is transported through the Earth's interior in subduction zones to form porphyry copper deposits. Copper supply is predicted to fall 30% short of demand by 2035, and understanding how these deposits form is vital to locating new resources efficiently and responsibly.
What will you be doing?
- Help plan and lead geological fieldwork in Arizona to collect and document natural rock samples from porphyry copper deposits.
- Characterise both natural and experimental samples using advanced analytical techniques, including synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy at Diamond Light Source, electron probe microanalysis, Raman spectroscopy, and LA-ICP-MS.
- Design and conduct high-pressure, high-temperature experiments using diamond anvil cells, piston-cylinder presses, and cold-seal pressure vessels to simulate how metal-bearing fluids and melts are generated in subduction zones.
Requirements
- You have research experience in igneous petrology, geochemistry, economic geology, or a closely related field, and hold (or are near completion of) a PhD in Earth Sciences or a closely related discipline.
- You have experience of geological fieldwork and are proficient with analytical techniques used to characterise geological materials.
- You have a track record of productive independent research and the ability to plan and execute laboratory-based experimental or analytical work.
- You are a motivated researcher who can work effectively within a multi-institutional team, communicate results clearly, and are willing to travel for fieldwork and synchrotron beamtime.
- Experience with high-pressure experimental apparatus or synchrotron-based techniques would be an advantage, but full training will be provided.
Qualifications
Full training will be provided for any techniques that are new to you.
Skills
Full training will be provided for any techniques that are new to you.
Benefits
Full training will be provided for any techniques that are new to you.
Pay
£43,482 - £50,253 per annum
Schedule
Full time
Contact
For informal queries please contact: Dr Oliver Lord, Senior Lecturer
Email: oliver.lord@bristol.ac.uk