Position
PhD Opportunity - Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
Employer
Curtin University
Location
Perth, Australia
Sector
Academic
Division
Geochemistry, Mineralogy, Petrology & Volcanology (GMPV)
Type
Full time
Level
Student / Graduate / Internship
Salary
Tax‐free PhD stipend plus project funds, with tuition fee offset.
Required education
Master
Application deadline
15 June 2026
Posted
5 June 2026
Project Overview
Innovative Isotope Geochemistry for Understanding Australia's Crust Through Time. We invite applications for a fully funded PhD research position focused on advancing our understanding of the evolution of Australia's crust. The project will apply state‐of‐the‐art in‐situ geochronology and isotope geochemistry (e.g. stable and radiogenic isotope analysis using SIMS and LA-ICP‐MS) to date and characterise accessory minerals such as apatite and zircon in crustal igneous rocks. The overarching aim is to develop a refined model of Australia's crustal evolution, including magma sources, crustal thickness, thermal evolution, and metamorphism, to better identify geological settings favourable for mineral resource formation. The project will adopt a multi‐isotope approach (e.g. U‐Pb, Sr, Ca, Lu‐Hf, trace elements) and combine established and emerging isotopic tools applied to accessory minerals. Key questions include how these systems track crustal differentiation and evolution, how they relate to broader global processes, and how they can be applied to improve our understanding of mineral systems. This PhD project forms part of an ARC DECRA‐funded research program and provides a holistic research framework, collaboration networks, and instrumentation. Candidates will also have opportunities for fieldwork to sample additional geological regions for targeted case studies and will receive close supervision and mentoring within an internationally recognised research group.
What We Offer
* Access to world‐class analytical facilities at Curtin University, with hands‐on training in state‐of‐the‐art techniques (e.g., SIMS, LA‐ICP‐MS)
* Integration into the Timescales of Mineral Systems Group, offering a dynamic, international, and supportive research environment
* Opportunities for fieldwork across diverse geological terranes in Australia
* Opportunities to present at national and international conferences
* Competitive scholarship funding (stipend plus project support). The scholarship includes a living stipend of $38,440 p.a. pro rata indexed, based on full‐time studies, for up to a maximum of 3.5 years. Tuition fees offset support is also available for a successful international candidate.
Candidate Requirements
* A Master's degree or Bachelor's degree with Honours in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
* Strong interest in geochemistry, geochronology, and/or crustal evolution.
* Demonstrated motivation and ability to undertake independent research.
* Excellent written and oral science communication skills.
* Previous experience with geochemical analysis, geochronology, fieldwork, and petrology is desirable.
* Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Start date
Flexible
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