Fluid Dynamical Processes in the Formation of Magmatic Ore Deposits

This PhD opportunity at the University of Melbourne focuses on the fluid dynamical processes involved in the formation of magmatic ore deposits, a topic of growing importance due to the increasing demand for critical minerals such as nickel, copper, cobalt, and platinum-group elements. These minerals are essential for electric vehicles and grid-scale battery storage, making reliable supply a key challenge for the transition to Net Zero. Australia is believed to have significant undiscovered reserves in magmatic sulfide deposits, which are small but highly valuable components of large igneous rock systems. The project aims to advance fundamental physical insight into how immiscible sulfide liquids accumulate within silicate magmas, a process that is not yet fully understood. The research will address several novel fluid dynamical problems, including gravity-driven rearrangement of dense viscous fluids atop granular mush, mathematical modeling of interfaces and their stability, and continuum models for droplet behavior in granular environments. The candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with geologists and experimentalists, and the project may be tailored to their interests within these areas. Supervision is provided by Dr Edward Hinton (University of Melbourne, Principal Supervisor) and Associate Professor Anja Slim (Monash University), with additional collaboration from researchers at Monash University, CSIRO Mineral Resources, and the University of Cambridge. The PhD candidate will be based at the School of Mathematics & Statistics, University of Melbourne (Parkville Campus), and will have opportunities to visit Monash (Australia) and Cambridge (UK) as part of the research collaboration. The successful candidate will receive a comprehensive funding package, including a full stipend (approx. $39,500 per annum), tuition fees covered for any nationality, single health cover for international students, a relocation allowance ($2000 for domestic, $3000 for international), and funds for travel to conferences, workshops, and collaborator visits. Applications are open to candidates of any nationality who meet the essential criteria. Applicants must have a First-class (H1 or equivalent) bachelor’s or master’s degree in applied mathematics, physics, or engineering from a high-ranking university. Experience with partial differential equations, numerical methods, and programming (Python or MATLAB) is required, along with a strong interest in fluid dynamics. Proof of English proficiency is necessary for candidates from countries where English is not the single official language. Applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis until March 30, 2026, with the ideal start date in the second half of 2026. Qualified candidates will be invited for further discussions via Zoom. To apply, email [email protected] with a single Word or PDF file containing a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, a formal transcript (translated if necessary), and a brief CV. For more information on English language requirements, visit the University of Melbourne's website.