Next-Generation Mass Spectrometry for Noble Gas Analysis and Ar/Ar Geochronology University of Glasgow in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the University of Glasgow’s Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre (SUERC) invites applications from outstanding candidates interested in developing next-generation mass spectrometry technology for noble gas analysis and Ar/Ar geochronology. The project sits at the intersection of analytical chemistry, instrument design, geochronology, and data science, aiming to revolutionize how noble gases are measured in Earth and planetary materials.

Noble gas mass spectrometry is fundamental to geoscience, enabling high-precision geochronology, tracing mantle evolution, volatile cycling, and planetary processes. However, current measurement architectures in noble gas laboratories have remained largely unchanged since the 1960s. This project offers a unique opportunity to rethink instrument design for higher sensitivity, improved abundance sensitivity, faster acquisition, better multiplexing, and enhanced isotopic precision, especially for extremely small and young samples.

The PhD research will explore emerging mass spectrometer platforms and measurement strategies for noble gas geochemistry, with a focus on Ar/Ar dating. Potential directions include evaluating Orbitrap-based technology for noble gas isotope analysis, hybrid instrument architectures, improved ion optics, next-generation detectors, and innovative approaches to sample introduction, purification, and gas handling. The project is highly exploratory and innovative, with scope to identify the most promising technological pathways for the future of noble gas analysis.

The student will engage in conceptual design, modeling, and experimental evaluation of new instrument configurations for measuring argon and other noble gases. Tasks may include ion trajectory simulations, vacuum and source design, detector optimization, gas purification interfaces, and development of analytical protocols for ultra-low abundance isotopes. A central aim is to assess whether new platforms can meet the demanding requirements of Ar/Ar geochronology: precise isotope ratio measurement, low blanks, robust interference correction, and reproducible analysis across a wide dynamic range of sample sizes and ages.

Beyond instrument development, the project addresses broader scientific questions such as analytical breakthroughs needed for high-precision geochronology, dating smaller and younger samples, resolving complex thermal histories, improving spatial resolution, and extending noble gas measurements into new domains. The successful candidate will contribute to both technology development and the future analytical capability of geosciences.

Applicants should have strong backgrounds in physics, engineering, chemistry, instrumentation, or quantitative geoscience. Experience in mass spectrometry, vacuum systems, electronics, ion optics, scientific programming, or data analysis is advantageous but not essential. Prior experience in noble gas geochemistry is not required, as full training will be provided within a world-leading isotope research environment.

Supervisors include Prof Darren Mark, Dan Barfod, Ross Dymock, Rasika Mahajan (SUERC), and Doug Hamilton & Lothar Rottmann (Thermo Fisher Scientific). The project features an industrial partnership with Thermo Fisher Scientific, offering opportunities for extended periods embedded within their Research and Development hub in Bremen, Germany. This collaboration provides unique insight into instrument design, prototyping, and translating new analytical concepts into operational technology.

The studentship provides full financial support, including payment of academic tuition fees, a UKRI-aligned stipend for 42 months, and coverage of all laboratory and research travel costs. The project is open to applicants from around the world. The student will join a cohort of six PhD students forming a focused mini-CDT, dedicated to developing next-generation analytical technologies across multiple isotope systems and advancing new approaches in geochronology. This collaborative environment enables students to work together across complementary projects and deliver scientific advances greater than the sum of individual studentships.

To apply, visit the University of Glasgow College of Science and Engineering Graduate School application portal. Clearly state the title of the PhD project, list the primary SUERC supervisor, and select SUERC as the host department. The anticipated start date is September 2026, and the application deadline is April 24, 2026.

For further information, contact [email protected].