Postdoctoral Researcher

Are you interested in working on a unique geological dataset to understand the evolution of one of the most enigmatic volcanoes?

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to work on the igneous petrology and geochemistry of rocks from Mount Paektu and associated its basaltic volcanism. Paektu/Changbaishan borders the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK, the formal name for North Korea) and China. The work is funded by the Richard Lounsbery Foundation. You will be part of a larger team, working with colleagues in the UK (University of Cambridge), DPRK and China and will work within the Mount Paektu Research Centre (MPRC), Department of Earth and Planetary Science working closely with Dr Eleanor Jennings and Prof. James Hammond.

We have a pre-existing collection of magmatic products from Mt. Paektu and associated volcanic vents that are typically more primitive than the main volcano. Many, but not all, of these samples, have previously been subject to various analyses. The analytical data is currently preliminary and incomplete. You will work with the unpublished dataset, identify data gaps and to carry out new analytical work needed to fully understand this magmatic system and the relationship between the various vents and the main volcano. This includes whole-rock, SEM and EPMA sample characterisation, and isotopic measurements including Ar-Ar dating. You will liaise with external facilities to coordinate the required laboratory analyses, travelling as needed. This is an excellent opportunity to work with rocks from unstudied volcanic vents in the context of a major international collaboration to develop our understanding of the origin and evolution of the broader magmatic system of Paektu volcano.

This opportunity would build on experience as: a PhD student or PDRA with experience in igneous petrology and geochemistry.

Contract

This role is offered on a fixed-term basis, for 12 months beginning in June 2026 with limited flexibility possible.

This is a full-time role (35 hours per week) and may include national and international travel to visit external collaborators and laboratories. Flexible working and some remote working is possible, although the project involves laboratory work and it is expected that the PDRA would be on site at least some of the time, as is required for the project.

Interviews will be held on 14/05/2026.

Salary and benefits

Grade 7 of the College's London Pay Scale which is £44,247 rising to £50,397 per annum.

Birkbeck offers a competitive salary and pension scheme, 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements and some of the most generous benefits in the HE sector, all while being located right in the heart of Central London.

The salary quoted is on the College's London Pay Scale which includes a consolidated Weighting/Allowance which applies only to staff whose normal contractual place of work is in the London area.

Enquiries

If you would like to know more about the role, please contact Dr Eleanor Jennings, senior lecturer, at e.jennings@bbk.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 3926 1798.

We welcome applicants from all sections of the community. The College is committed to improving the gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding an Athena SWAN award and operating Disability Confident & Mindful Employer schemes.

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