The Economic Geology Research Centre (EGRU) at James Cook University (JCU) is looking for a PhD student available to start immediately to work on a project researching the magmatic evolution and magma fertility for Cu-Au-REE mineralization of the Mary Kathleen Domain, Mount Isa Inlier.

This projects is part of a larger research effort that we are conducting together with the Geological Survey of Queensland (GSQ) to improve the exploration potential in the Mount Isa region. As part of this project you will work with EGRU researchers, GSQ staff and exploration geologists from various mining companies operating in the region. This is a unique opportunity to advance your research career and learn new skills as part of a world class research team.

This project will benefit from recently rejuvenated analytical facilities at the Advanced Analytical Centre at JCU, and will include: micro-imaging, whole rock and in-situ major and trace element geochemistry; U-Pb dating of zircon, (± titanite, apatite, monazite); Hf isotopes in zircon; Nd isotopes in apatite, titanite & REE minerals; whole rock radiogenic isotopes, etc.

The successful applicant will make extensive use of these facilities and contribute to developing new research methods. We are looking for a candidate who has field geology and laboratory experience with at least one of the above techniques and who is willing to contribute to the research effort within EGRU. A first class Honours or a Masters by research are essential to be eligible for PhD studies at JCU. International applicants are encouraged to apply, but preference will be given to Australian and New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

If you are interested in being part of our team and would like more information about this project please contact one of the project leaders:

Prof. Paul Dirks (paul.dirks@jcu.edu.au)

Assoc. Prof. Carl Spandler (carl.spandler@jcu.edu.au)

Dr. Ioan Sanislav (ioan.sanislav@jcu.edu.au)

More information about the Geoscience department and EGRU can be found here.