About the project
The proposed research programme addresses the issue of how much the integration of volcano-led geophysical imaging techniques may improve hazard assessment and mitigation in inhabited areas. The successful PhD candidate will develop challenging research developed at the boundary between Geo- and Social Sciences, with particular focus on hazard, resilience and risk assessment in volcanoes at international boundaries. He/she will interact with leading experts in these fields at the University of Aberdeen (UoA), University of Dundee (UoD), and King’s College London (KCL), spending time in Italian and South American volcano monitoring institutions. The research will open a pathway to a career in institutes focused on geo-imaging and hazard assessment and response, both in the academic and industrial (geothermal) sectors.
Candidate requirements
The successful candidate should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in a relevant subject of both Earth and Social Sciences (e.g. Physical and Human Geography, Geophysics, Hazard). Applicants with a minimum of a 2.2 Honours degree may be considered provided they have a Distinction at Masters level.
Funding model
This 3.5 year studentship is funded jointly by the School of Geosciences, University of Aberdeen, and SAGES (Scottish Alliance for Geoscience, Environment and Society). The PhD is fully funded and includes an annual stipend for the student commensurate with current RCUK rates, payment of tuition fees, and a research training support grant. Applications will be accepted from international students provided that they agree to cover the difference between UK/EU and overseas tuition fees.
Application procedure
Applications for the studentship can be completed online at https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php, noting clearly the name of the lead supervisor (Dr Luca De Siena) and the project title (exactly as advertised) on the application form. Informal enquiries about the studentship are strongly encouraged in advance of making a full application. To make an enquiry, please send a copy of your cv and a short covering letter addressed to Dr De Siena at the following email address: lucadesiena@abdn.ac.uk. The closing date for applications is 26 January 2018. Applications received after that date will not be considered.