Melting Greenland’s Ice Sheet from Above and Below: Earth’s Mantle as a Ground Source Heat Pump Imperial College London in United Kingdom

Greenland’s ice sheet is melting at an alarming rate, with significant consequences for greenhouse gas emissions and sea level rise, both of which drive climate change feedback mechanisms. While atmospheric warming is the primary cause, this PhD project explores the additional impact of heating from Earth’s mantle, specifically a hypothesised mantle plume ascending from the core-mantle boundary. This plume may contribute to the regional heat budget, exposing the base of the ice sheet to further melting and promoting slip.

The research will combine ground-based geophysical and satellite-based earth observation datasets, employing advanced modelling techniques to investigate the sensitivity of the Greenland ice sheet to the mantle heat pump. The project aims to constrain the thermal state of the mantle below Greenland and assess the effects of basal sliding, subglacial streams, and basal topography on the evolution of the ice sheet using ice flow models.

As a PhD student, you will receive comprehensive training in geophysical and earth observation techniques, geophysical fieldwork, data management, and science communication. These areas are recognised by the Natural Environmental Research Council (NERC) as having skills gaps, making this opportunity particularly valuable. You will be expected to present your research at national and international conferences and participate in the PhD training and activities of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and Environment, as well as the Department of Physics or Department of Earth Science and Engineering at Imperial College London.

The position offers 3.3 years of funding, including home tuition fees at the UKRI indicative rate (£5,006 per annum for 2025/26), a maintenance stipend (£22,780 per annum for 2025/26), and £5,000 for research expenses such as conference costs, consumables, and travel. Funding can partially support international students, who may combine it with private resources or scholarships.

Applicants should have a first-class or strong 2:1 degree (or international equivalent) in geophysics, physics, or applied mathematics, with a solid foundation in numerical modelling. Additional requirements include proficiency in English, experience with scientific programming and data analysis, excellent organisational and time management skills, self-motivation, curiosity, independent and critical thinking, willingness to participate in geophysical fieldwork, and a clean driving licence. English language testing results (IELTS or TOEFL) may be required for non-native speakers.

To apply, send a single PDF file (under 20 MB) to Dr Fiona Simpson at [email protected], including a cover letter, CV, undergraduate and masters grades, English testing results (if relevant), and details of two academic referees. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For further details, visit the project page.