Katla is one of the most active and hazardous volcanoes in Iceland and the whole of northern Europe. In order to assess the volcanic hazard of a potential eruption of Katla Volcano for Scandinavia, the evolution and structure of the magma plumbing system beneath the volcano needs to be characterised. For this purpose, petrological and geochemical analyses of samples of the recent and historic eruptive activity will be carried out. These will include in-situ measurements of mineral chemistry as a base for thermobarometric modelling to resolve depths of magma storage. Additionally, isotope geochemistry will be used to ascertain the role of magmatic processes such as differentiation, mixing and magma-crust interaction. The two approaches will be combined to investigate the evolution and architecture of the magmatic plumbing system.

Requirements. We seek a highly motivated candidate with an MSc or equivalent degree in Earth Sciences and interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. Special attention will be given to candidates who have a background in igneous petrology, in-situ mineral analysis, thermobarometry and/or isotope geochemistry. Candidates are expected to be able to communicate easily in oral and written English.

Scholarship Application Deadline:15 April, 2011

Further Scholarship Information and Application