Postdoctoral Scholar in Mantle Melt Dynamics

Overview

The Department of Geosciences at The Pennsylvania State University (University Park, PA) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct fundamental research in mantle two-phase flow dynamics in the Mittal Lab in the Geosciences Department at Penn State. The postdoc will contribute to a funded, collaborative NSF grant titled “NSFGEO-NERC Collaborative Research:
Magnetotelluric imaging and geodynamical/geochemical investigations of plume-ridge interaction in the Galapagos” led by the PI Mittal. The project aims to improve our understanding of melt transport in the asthenosphere and melt localization processes through an integrated multidisciplinary study focused on mantle plume–mid-ocean ridge interaction in the Galapagos, including the Wolf-Darwin Lineament as a case study. The work includes three components: (1) new marine resistivity imaging using magnetotelluric and controlled-source electromagnetic data with ocean-bottom broadband MT deployments;

(2) geochemical analysis (major, trace, volatile content, Sr, Nd, Pb and Fe isotopes) of existing and new dredge samples along northern Galapagos lineaments and the Western Galapagos Spreading Centre; (3) geodynamical modeling of two-phase melt channelization to constrain the physical viability of melt localization. These components will be integrated to generate a new model for plume–ridge interaction and asthenospheric melt transport.

A successful candidate will have experience in mantle geodynamics modeling and numerical computations to complement the geochemical work performed by other co-PIs.

• The generation and analysis of geodynamical models for mantle plume–ridge interaction (using ASPECT) focused on the Galapagos system.
• Theoretical stability analysis to understand the nature of melt channelization and analysis of MT datasets.
• Research work and participation in fieldwork.
• Preparation of project reports, manuscripts, and research presentations in collaboration with team members.

• A PhD in geophysics, geodynamics, rock mechanics or related discipline by the appointment start date.
• Demonstrated effective writing skills through high-quality reports and publications.

To apply, please include the following in a single PDF document: a) CV including publication list; b) the names and contact information for 3 professional references (to be contacted as needed); c) a cover letter (1-page max, 12-point font) that outlines
1) interest in the position and career goals,
2) your research interests,
3) previous research, and
4) how your experience aligns with the position summary and requirements.

This is a postdoctoral position, funded for one year from the date of hire, with excellent possibility of renewal pending available funding and satisfactory performance.

The Pennsylvania State University’s College of Earth and Mineral Sciences takes an active role in building a talented, inclusive, and culturally competent workforce. Applicants should provide evidence of a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusive excellence, and belonging, either woven into their application materials or as a separate statement.

Apply online at the PSU job site: to be provided in the posting (URL not shown in this document).

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For safety information and the Annual Security Report, visit the university’s Clery Act resources (URL not shown in this document). Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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