About the Position
The Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Volcanic Petrology to contribute to the NERC-funded Large Grant project ‘Ex-X – Expecting the Unexpected’, led by Prof. Jenni Barclay (University of Bristol). This full-time position is fixed-term for two years, based in Oxford, and will play a vital role in advancing our understanding of dangerous volcanic transitions, particularly in the Eastern Caribbean. The postholder will engage in quantitative petrological research, analysing both existing and newly collected igneous rock samples. The successful candidate will join a dynamic international research team and contribute to a step-change in volcanic monitoring and early warning systems through both fieldwork and analytical investigations. This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop as an independent researcher within one of the world’s top universities.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Assistant
- Institution: University of Oxford
- Department: Department of Earth Sciences
- Research Field: Volcanology / Petrology / Geochemistry
- Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years)
- Start Date (Anticipated): Autumn 2025
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary Range: £39,749–£45,628 per annum (Grade 7)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Volcanic Petrology
- Magma Storage and Evolution
- Timescales of Magmatic Processes
- Eastern Caribbean Volcanoes
- Chemical and Petrological Rock Analysis
- Field Sampling and Laboratory Research
- Volcanic Hazard Assessment
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD or near completion in Earth Sciences, Geochemistry, Petrology, or related field
- Experience in the chemical and petrological analysis of igneous rocks
- Ability to work independently and manage academic research
- Track record of publications or research presentations
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience managing a discrete area of a research project
- Demonstrated collaboration in co-authoring research articles
- Fieldwork experience in volcanic environments
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct quantitative petrological research on volcanic samples
- Analyse pre-existing sample collections and undertake new fieldwork
- Contribute to international collaboration with research partners
- Support the improvement of volcanic hazard monitoring in the Eastern Caribbean
- Manage individual research activities and data analysis
- Disseminate findings through publications and presentations
- Contribute ideas to related or new research initiatives
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your application online through the University of Oxford’s job portal. Include your CV and a supporting statement addressing how you meet the selection criteria. Do not attach manuscripts or certificates, as these will not be reviewed.
Required Documents:
- CV
- Supporting Statement
Contact Email: personnel@earth.ox.ac.uk
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 21 July 2025
- Deadline: 14 August 2025 (12:00 BST)
- Interview Date: 4 September 2025 (provisional)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: https://www.ox.ac.uk
- Department Website: https://www.earth.ox.ac.uk
- Official Notification Link: Oxford Jobs Portal
- Apply Now: Submit Application
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