SEEDS Internship : Igneous rocks and processe...
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SEEDS Internship : Igneous rocks and processes associated with the Paektu
Project Description
The volcano Mt Paektu (Changbaishan) is a large intraplate volcano located between DPRK and China. The cause of this intraplate magmatism is uncertain. Associated with the main volcano are several smaller and older vents and volcanoes, that may hold clues about the origin and evolution of the volcanic system as a whole. Whilst we have samples and some preliminary data from some of these volcanoes, their characterisation is still in the exploratory phase. Some samples are typical basaltic, whereas others have some more unusual petrographic features. In this project, a student will work with a subset of the samples to properly characterise them, investigate their igneous evolution and reconstruct a primary magma composition that can be used to investigate the mantle melting conditions that have led to the formation of this volcanic system. The student will create new analyses by electron probe microanalysis (EDS and WDS) and will combine new data with existing unpublished data to properly characterise the samples. The student will also be given training in geochemical modelling, to relate these data to primary magma composition and crustal processing.
Research themes
Project Specific Training
Work plan: Full-time
The student will receive full training in the techniques required. Ideally, the intern should be studying Earth sciences, geology, planetary science or a related subject area, with an interest in igneous petrology. Over the course of the project, the student would develop numerical skills in data processing and modelling. The project is expected to last 6-7 weeks. The student will begin spending around a week reviewing papers and receiving training and relevant background information, then spend the second week on optical microscopy. They will then spend up to eight days over two weeks collecting SEM/EPMA (electron probe microanalysis) images and chemical data. The remainder of the project time will be spent processing, modelling and plotting data, interpretation of findings and preparation of a short report of the findings.
Work plan: Part-time
This internship can be easily adapted to a part-time working pattern. For example, if working 50% FTE, the number of weeks in the above work plan can be multiplied by two. The duration of the internship is only limited by the student's availability and university term dates. There is also a little flexibility in terms of location: laboratory attendance in- person is required, but other parts of the project can be completed remotely if required (though we would encourage attendance if possible, and would provide a workspace).
Project supervisor/s
Eleanor Jennings
School of Natural Sciences
Birkbeck
e.jennings@bbk.ac.uk
James Hammond
School of Natural Sciences
Birkbeck
j.hammond@bbk.ac.uk