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 .

Project Overview: This PhD project, based at the University of Southampton's School of Ocean and Earth Sciences, investigates the processes and timescales by which supervolcanoes become primed for eruption. Focusing on the giant magma body beneath the Central Andes, the research combines fieldwork, crystal geochemistry, and computational modelling to decode the triggers of supereruptions. The project aims to answer fundamental questions about how and how quickly supervolcanoes can transition from a dormant to an eruptive state. Research Areas: The project sits at the intersection of applied geology, geochemistry, geophysics, geoscience, and volcanology. Students will gain hands-on experience in field-based data collection, laboratory analysis of crystals, and advanced computational modelling techniques. The interdisciplinary nature of the project provides a comprehensive training environment for those interested in earth sciences and volcanic processes. Supervision: The supervisory team includes Dr G Weber, Prof A Milton, Dr D Keir, and Prof JB Blundy, who collectively bring expertise in volcanology, geochemistry, and geophysics. The team offers a supportive and stimulating research environment, with opportunities for collaboration and skill development. Eligibility: Applicants should possess or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in geology, geoscience, earth science, or a closely related discipline. Experience in fieldwork, geochemistry, or computational modelling is advantageous. Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate English language proficiency as per University of Southampton requirements. Funding: Funding details are not specified in the current announcement. Prospective applicants are encouraged to check the project link or contact the supervisors for the latest information on available funding or studentships. Application Process: Applications should be submitted online via the University of Southampton portal by 8 January 2026. Required documents typically include a CV, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. Early contact with the supervisory team is recommended for further guidance. Further Information: For more details and to apply, visit the project page: FindAPhD Project Link .