Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Geoscience programme. The position is available from August 2026 or later.
Title:
Earth’s early mantle
Research area and project description:
Earth is unique in the Solar System because the surface comprises continents and ocean basins. This tectonic configuration is a consequence of the evolution of Earth’s largest body – the mantle. Unlike any other planet, Earth’s mantle evolved from an initial state of planetary differentiation to dramatic melting 1.5 billion years later that resulted in formation of the first continents. The cause of this globally fundamental geological change is not known because mantle rocks from the early Earth are not preserved.
The student will utilise proxy isotopic information from mineral inclusions trapped in ancient magmatic zircon crystals to see back into the ancient mantle history. This will be incorporated with petrological information on Archean mantle occurrences in Norway.
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Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree or at least one year of a Master’s degree in geoscience.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Institut for Geoscience, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 2, Aarhus 8000, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
James Scott, jscott@geo.au.dk or Tod Waight todw@ign.au.dk
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2026)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.
