Project Overview: This PhD project at the University of Southampton investigates how the behaviour of subduction zone volcanoes evolves as they age, focusing on magma dynamics and eruptive styles. The research compares Bagana, a rare young stratovolcano in Papua New Guinea, with Etna, a mature stratovolcano in Italy, to understand changes in magmatic timescales and eruption behaviour over a volcano’s lifespan. Research Focus: Volcanoes are powered by complex magmatic plumbing systems that influence how magma is assembled, rises, and erupts. Most subduction zone volcanoes today are mature, exhibiting diverse eruption styles and unpredictable unrest periods, which complicates volcanic risk reduction. This project aims to determine whether this unpredictability increases with age by studying Bagana’s immature system and comparing it to Etna’s well-documented, mature system. The student will use advanced analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron microprobe analysis, and laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometry, to create high-resolution chemical maps of volcanic rocks. These data will be used for textural analysis and diffusion chronometry in zoned minerals, reconstructing magmatic processes and their timescales. Fieldwork at Etna is encouraged to collect additional samples, and the project’s findings will contribute to global efforts in volcano monitoring and risk reduction. Training and Development: The IGNITE programme offers comprehensive personal and professional development, including fieldwork, advanced laboratory techniques, data management, and communication skills. Students will interact with a wide network of academic, research, and industrial partners, and benefit from outreach opportunities at the Natural History Museum. Attendance at national and international conferences and workshops is supported. Funding: The IGNITE Doctoral Landscape Award provides 3.5 years of funding (full- or part-time), including a tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), Home tuition fees, an international fee waiver, and a Research Training Support Grant (£2,200/year). Eligibility: Applicants must have a UK bachelor’s degree with upper second-class honours or higher in a relevant subject (international equivalents accepted). English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in all components or equivalent) is required. The programme encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and offers a guaranteed interview scheme for qualifying UK applicants from racially minoritised backgrounds. Application Process: Apply by 11:59pm on 8 January 2026 via the University of Southampton portal. Contact the lead supervisor to discuss your suitability before applying. You may apply for up to two projects but are advised to tailor your application to one. Both UK and international students are eligible, though competition for international studentships is high. For more information, see the project page and the international qualifications and language requirements pages. For queries about the guaranteed interview scheme, email nerc-dla@soton.ac.uk .