Fully Funded PhD on Lithic Lava Fragments at Plymouth, UK HigherJobz

About the Program

This exciting fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Plymouth offers a rare opportunity to uncover the hidden story of volcanic eruptions. The project focuses on lithic lava fragments — overlooked pieces of volcanic deposits that hold essential clues about volcanoes’ behaviour before explosive eruptions. Working as part of the NERC-funded ‘Ex-X’ project, you will investigate explosive transitions in the Eastern Caribbean, such as at St Vincent, Dominica, and Montserrat. You will join a supportive team of leading volcanologists and use advanced petrological techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Backscatter Diffraction. This research is ideal for students passionate about geology, volcanic hazards, and fieldwork. Successful candidates will receive a generous stipend, full tuition support, and access to cutting-edge facilities, providing an excellent foundation for a future academic or research career.

Program Details

Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: University of Plymouth
Department/Faculty: School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Supervisor: Dr Paul Cole (with Dr Michelle Harris, Prof Alison Rust, Prof Jenni Barclay)
Location: Plymouth, United Kingdom and Eastern Caribbean field sites
Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026
Duration: 3 years (funded period within a four-year registration)
Funding: Full home tuition fees covered plus annual stipend of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate)
Working Hours (if applicable): Full-time
Required Degree/Diploma: First or upper second-class honours degree in geology, earth sciences, or a similar discipline; relevant master’s qualification preferred

Research Focus/Area

Geology
Volcanology
Petrology
Geochemistry
Hazard Analysis

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

First or upper second-class honours degree in geology or earth sciences (or similar field)
If English is not your first language: IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each section) or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s degree in a related area
Strong research experience and academic record
Skills in petrological analysis, SEM, or field-based volcanic studies

Key Features of the Program

Opportunity to join a world-class research team
Extensive fieldwork in the Eastern Caribbean
Access to advanced analytical tools (SEM, EBSD)
International collaborations
Support for conference attendance and research dissemination

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit your application via the University of Plymouth online portal. In the ‘Proposed project title/studentship title’ field, enter: GEES 26-01 S4-P1 Cole. Upload a blank document when asked for a research proposal, as this is not required.