

Long-term evolution of volcanoes, and associated short-term movement of magma at depth, have been widely studied, but there is a gap in monitoring the medium-term movement of magma in the deeper plumbing system. This project aims to explore: (1) the role of pre-existing basement structures in magma pathways in the shallow crust; (2) how the crystallinity (viscosity) of the magma varies as the intrusion grows, and how this impacts on emplacement mechanisms and storage system geometry; and (3) if the accommodation structures and surface expressions of shallow crustal intrusions can be used to model the sub-surface magma storage system, monitor charging of the system, and predict where edifice migration or monogenetic volcanism could next appear. Desktop and field-based digital mapping and sample collection will be carried out in both ancient (e.g. Henry Mountains) and presently active (e.g. Yellowstone; Long Valley Caldera) magmatic systems in the Western USA. Regional to outcrop scale Virtual Outcrop (VO) models will be used to visualise and map surface expressions and geological structures. Where deformation structures are exposed, geometric and kinematic data will be measured, and combined with lab-based analysis of Crystal Size Distributions, to investigate the exposed plumbing system of ancient systems. These models of ancient systems will be integrated with surface models of the present-day systems to create a holistic view future volcanic hazard areas.
A student undertaking this PhD project would receive one-to-one instruction by the supervisory team in how to carry out remote sensing surveys for lineament picking to identify structural trends and key volcanic and shallow-crustal emplacement deformation structures. They would also receive one-to-one training in how to go about planning a field campaign, followed by in the field training in collecting structural and kinematic data and samples. They would also receive further desktop and lab-based training in how to go about analysing and interpreting field data and InSAR data for ground deformation, and how to carry out 3D modelling of the surface and subsurface using specialist software. It is likely the student would carry out Terrestrial Laser Scan and Drone surveys also and so would receive field and analytical training in these also. Training would also be provided for Crystal Size Distribution studies (requiring optical microscopy, possible SEM studies and software such as ImageJ).
Postdoctoral Research
Academic - Lecturer
Vulcanologist for a Volcanic Observatory
Transferrable skills for many Geologist roles in Industry
Civil Servant - Scientific Advisor