Postdoctoral Scholar in Mantle Melt Dynamics

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Department of Geosciences at The Pennsylvania State University (University Park, PA) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct fundamental research in the area of 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 "NSFGEO-NERC Collaborative Research: Magnetotelluric imaging and geodynamical/geochemical investigations of plume-ridge interaction in the Galapagos" led by the PI Mittal. The project seeks to improve our understanding of melt transport in the asthenosphere and melt localization processes through an integrated multidisciplinary study. We will focus on mantle plume - mid-ocean ridge interaction in the Galapagos, exemplified by the enigmatic Wolf-Darwin Lineament, as a case study to explore this fundamental problem. The proposed work includes three key components: (1) New marine resistivity imaging using magnetotelluric (MT) and controlled-source electromagnetic data sets for imaging melt distribution (with the deployment of ocean bottom broadband MT sites); (2) Geochemical analysis (major, trace, volatile content, Sr, Nd, Pb and Fe isotopes) of existing and new dredge samples along the northern Galapagos lineaments and Western Galapagos Spreading Centre; (3) Geodynamical modeling of two phase melt channelization to constrain the physical viability of melt localization. These will be integrated to generate a new model for plume-ridge interaction and asthenospheric melt transport.A successful candidate will have experience in the areas of mantle geodymamics modeling and numerical computations to supplement the geochemical work by other co-PIs.

Responsibilities Include:
* 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.

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

Application Instructions:
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-pt 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. We understand that our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness, mutual respect, and commitment to each other. Applicants should provide evidence, either woven through their application materials or as a separate diversity statement, of a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusive excellence, and belonging and of engagement which creates an inclusive environment in their department/workplace.

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