PhD Studentship: Magma Emplacement and Its Evolution—Deciphering Between Magmatic and Tectonic Processes University of East Anglia in United Kingdom

[Fully-funded studentship covering fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and research training and support grant (RTSG). International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived. ARIES funding does not cover relocation, visa, or health surcharge costs.] This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia investigates the emplacement and evolution of magma, focusing on distinguishing magmatic from tectonic processes in layered intrusions. The project centers on the Bjerkreim-Sokndal (BKS) layered intrusion in Southern Norway, a site rich in ilmenite and phosphate rock deposits, and offers a unique opportunity to study how deformation impacts ore mineralisation, mineral chemistry, and rock microstructure. The research aims to differentiate between magmatic and post-emplacement microstructures and to assess the effects of deformation on the geochemistry of key rock-forming minerals. Methodologies include fieldwork and petrography, electron backscatter diffraction analyses (in collaboration with the University of Cambridge), magnetic fabric analysis (with the University of St Andrews), and mineral chemistry studies (at the Norwegian Geological Survey, Trondheim). The successful candidate will participate in a two-week field trip to the Bjerkreim Lobe in year one and receive tailored training in digital and traditional mapping, microstructural analysis (EBSD, SEM, microscopy), and rock magnetic techniques. Training is primarily one-to-one, working closely with supervisors in modern laboratory settings. Applicants should hold a BSc or MSc in Geology or a related discipline, be enthusiastic about fieldwork, and motivated to shape the project to their research interests. Entry requirements include a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 and an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 6 in each category). The studentship is fully funded for eligible UKRI candidates, covering tuition, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training and support grant. International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived, but relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs are not covered. The position is full-time, starting 1 October 2026, with an application deadline of 7 January 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the University of East Anglia's postgraduate research application portal.