Monazite Petrochronology: Tracking source to sink REE mineralization in pegmatites

1. Analytical Geochemistry- With full one-to-one instruction, technical support and training from the supervisory team, the PhD student will operate a range of analytical to collect imaging, isotopic and geochemical datasets. The project will use a range of in-house analytical equipment at the University of Portsmouth (UOP), as well as at partner institutions, all of which are well-supported by technical staff which will ensure maximum training and data collection opportunities. The student will handle datasets including data reduction, presentation and interpretation at multiple scales. 
Specific Laboratory skills:
a. Petrography and sample characterisation using Electron Microscope techniques including Electron Backscatter Diffraction imagining (UOP).
b. Laser Ablation- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry petrochronological (U-Th-Pb-REE geochemistry) using an Agilent 8900 inductively-coupled-plasma triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer (ICP-MS-MS) at UOP.
c. LA-ICP-MC-MS analysis of neodymium, strontium and hafnium isotopes to track REE sources in accessory phases at UOP.
d. Femtosecond Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy- (ICP-MS-MS) analysis of minor and trace element mapping at UOP (fs-LA-LIBS; NERC Capital Award 2021). This enables concurrent rapid LA mapping of REE and many other elements to ppb detection limits, and LIBS analysis of non-metals (e.g. F) and other elements that are challenging to measure by X-ray spectroscopy (e.g. Li).
e. High spatial resolution micro X-ray fluorescence (µXRF) mapping and X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) synchrotron techniques- student will receive training and collect data at the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS-II), USA, and/or the Canadian Light Source in Saskatchewan.
f. Fluid inclusion analysis to track changes in fluid sources – this will include fluid inclusion petrology, microthermometry and laser microRaman spectroscopy (UCL, McFall) and compared to fs-LA-LIBS techniques at the UOP.
2. Field skills- This project will involve an optional field trip to Saskatchewan where the student will gain first hand training in field skills including making geological observations, structural analysis, sampling and general training in describing and interpreting pegmatites in the field.
3. Mineral exploration industry - The student will gain insight into the mineral exploration industry during research visits, as well as developing a network of industry contacts during conferences.
4. Research placement- this project will involve a research placement at the University of Saskatchewan (UOS) under supervision of Dr. Camille Partin. This will provide a diverse environment for the student to learn about academia and industry, including being part of the wider REE pegmatite research group.
5. Ethics and EDI - The research project will go through an ethical screening process at the UOP and the student will be given sufficient training to assess the ethical considerations of the project.
6. Outreach and indigenous community engagement- the student will be encouraged and supported through training and guidance to communicate the findings of their research to the indigenous English River First Nations group as part of the wider Canadian project during a research placement at the UOS.
7. Presentation and communication skills- the student will be encouraged to present their research at conferences such as the Mineral Deposits Studies Group Conference, Goldschmidt, Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference. 
8. Scientific academic skills: during the PhD the student will learn scientific skills such as data analysis, presentation and interpretation, writing scientific manuscripts  under the supervision, support and training of the wider research group. The supervisory team will embed careers discussion and advice throughout the PhD. The student will receive training in reviewing manuscripts, writing grant proposals, interviewing, and CV writing.