Post Doctoral Research Associate - Differentiated Meteorites

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Applications are invited for an STFC-funded PDRA position in the School of Physical Sciences at The Open University. Our research covers a wide range of Solar System science and exploration. We investigate the origin and evolution of the Solar System, through the physical, geological, chemical and biological processes that drive it. We use laboratory and space mission experiments, remote observation, environmental simulation and modelling to investigate the surfaces and atmospheres of the terrestrial planets, the Moon, asteroids, comets and extra-terrestrial materials.

The post-holder will be expected to work independently but will be part of an active Cosmochemistry Research Group (CRG). The work will involve carrying out a novel study to measure the distribution and isotopic composition of light elements (C, N and noble gases) in a set of differentiated meteorites through a combination of ion microprobe and stepped combustion techniques. To be effective in this role, the successful candidate will have a demonstrable prior experience in petrology/geochemistry using standard petrological tools, good competency with microanalytical instruments such as SEM/EPMA/ICP-MS/SIMS, and a proven track-record of handling large and complex geochemical datasets for understanding geochemical processes as evidenced by relevant published work. 

A successful outcome from this work will be a better understanding of the history of volatile elements within the first 10 Ma of Solar System history. This work is analytically challenging, requiring significant skills and patience in manipulating rare and small samples, developing new SIMS standards and protocols as required and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team in a modern laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

Essential:

• PhD (already awarded or submitted by the start date, if successful) in analytical geochemistry or in a closely related field
• Demonstrable expertise in geochemistry, mineralogy and petrology
• The ability to carry out micron-to-sub-micron scale sample analyses and standard preparation
• Experience in using Mass Spectrometry methods to acquire isotopic and/or elemental compositions in geological materials at high-spatial resolution
• Demonstrated ability to work both as part of a team and on own initiative
• Ability to plan own work, prioritise workload and deliver results on schedule
• Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills

Desirable:

• A record of publishing in leading scientific journals
• Research experience relevant to the proposed research (e.g., volatiles measurements using SIMS or other mass spectrometric techniques)
• Experience in developing new analytical protocols (e.g., for SIMS) and/or sample preparation methodologies
• Experience of decision-making, problem-solving, planning and organising
• The ability to be proactive and self-motivated, and to work successfully without supervision
• Embracing change: The ability to work adaptively and responsively as the research develops

Support with your application

If you have any questions, or need support or adjustments relating to your application, the recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on 01908 541111 or email careers@open.ac.uk quoting the advert reference number.

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work life balance. Get all the details of what benefits we offer by visiting our Staff Benefits page (clicking this link will open a new window).

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you.

We anticipate interviews taking place W/C 27th October. 

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV
• Supporting statement (This should be no more than 1000 words, outlining why you're interested in this role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria for this role as detailed in the above Job Description) 

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