The Department of Applied Geology at Curtin University is offering two PhD scholarships. Positions will be open until filled so early application is recommended.

1. Subduction of elements with variable oxidation state: effects on the source of arc magmatism

This project is associated with the Australian Research Council (ARC) funded project " Subduction of elements with variable oxidation state: effects on the source of arc magmatism". Subduction involves net addition of oxidised elements to the mantle. The ultimate fate of these elements is hard to determine; sub-arc mantle oxidation is integral to genetic models of arc-related ore deposits but there is substantial evidence to suggest that sub-arc mantle oxidation state is the same as that in other parts of the mantle.

These projects will combine a detailed study of subducted mantle lithosphere with piston cylinder experiments and thermodynamic models to help resolve this issue. Techniques likely to be employed in the projects involve synchrotron, laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectroscopy (LA-ICPMS) and ion probe isotope analysis, plus thermodynamic and numerical modelling, in addition to standard techniques such as field mapping, electron microprobe analysis, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. This strategy can be modified in line with the candidate's aptitudes and preferences. Field locations will include Corsica in September 2013.

To apply, please send a CV and an example of your written work to Dr Katy Evans (k.evans@curtin.edu.au). Please also contact Katy with any further enquiries.

This project is funded by the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Core to Crust Fluids Systems (CCFS), and will focus on the petrogenesis of targeted Precambrian mafic igneous provinces in Australia that are believed by some to be related to mantle plume activities. The purpose of the study is to examine how many of these provinces have the geochemical and petrological characteristics typical of high-temperature melting, a deep mantle source, and high magma productivity predicted of mantle plumes. An improved Australian LIP (large igneous province) record, combined with the global record, will enable us to examine the possible presence of cyclicity in plume activities, and its potential linkage to tectonic cycles. The PhD candidate is required to have a strong geochemical and petrological background.

To apply, please send a CV and an example of your written work to Professor Zheng-Xiang Li (z.li@curtin.edu.au). Please also contact Professor Li with any further enquiries.

The successful candidates will have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as the John De Laeter Centre for Mass Spectrometry and the Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, and the Australian Synchrotron, where Curtin is a foundation investor.

Curtin is a dynamic, research-intensive University that has achieved national and international stature, as evidenced by its inclusion in the Top 500 ranking of world Universities in 2009 according to the Shanghai Jiao Tong Index. The discipline of Earth Sciences was recently awarded an Excellence in Research for Australia ranking of 5, the highest achievable. These factors, coupled with recent successes in the ARC grant rounds and the Department of Applied Geology's involvement in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Core to Crust Fluid Systems (CCFS), ensures that the candidates will be hosted within a vibrant and dynamic research environment.