The Department of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University is currently seeking a motivated PhD candidate to work on an exciting and interdisciplinary project aimed at detecting mantle plumes in seismic images, using machine learning techniques. This PhD is part of a larger Vidi project funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), and led by Dr Laura Cobden.

The PhD will integrate data and modelling from seismology, mineral physics and geodynamics, in order to accurately characterise how thermochemical plumes (as predicted by geodynamic modelling) are manifested in seismic recordings, especially tomographic images. The candidate will implement various numerical modelling and machine-learning tools. The position is based in the Seismology group at Utrecht University, and is designed to foster international collaboration with geodynamicists, mineral physicists and petrologists.

Up to 10% of the candidate’s time will be dedicated to assisting in the BSc and MSc teaching programmes of the Earth Sciences department. A personalised training programme will be set up, mutually agreed on recruitment, which will reflect the candidate’s training needs and career objectives.

The candidate should have strong numerical and analytical skills and an MSc degree (or equivalent) in Earth Science or Geophysics. Previous experience in computer programming and numerical modelling is highly desirable. A background in either seismic waveform modelling or high-pressure mineral physics would also be advantageous. Full fluency in written and spoken English is essential.

The successful candidate will be offered a full-time position at first for one year. Depending on a good performance this may be extended to a total period of four years, with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this period.

Employment conditions are based on the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities. The gross monthly salary starts with € 2,222,- in the first year and increases to € 2,840,- in the fourth year of employment with a full-time appointment. The salary is supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8% per year and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%. In addition, we offer a pension scheme, collective insurance schemes and flexible employment conditions. You'll find more information about Working at Utrecht University here.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.

The city of Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, with a charming old center and an internationally oriented culture that is strongly influenced by its century-old university. Utrecht city has been consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the Netherlands.

The Faculty of Geosciences conducts education and research concerning the geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and anthroposphere. With a complement of 2,600 students (BSc and MSc) and 600 staff, the Faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty is organised in four Departments: Innovation, Environmental & Energy Sciences, Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, and Human Geography & Urban/Regional Planning.

The Department of Earth Sciences conducts teaching and research across the full range of the solid Earth and environmental Earth sciences, with activities in almost all areas of geology, geochemistry, geophysics, biogeosciences and hydrogeology. The department hosts a highly international group of more than 100 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers and houses a wide variety of world-class laboratories.