Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 April 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
Scholarship
$33,511pa for 3.5 years
About the research project
While theory predicts that explosive viscous magmatic fragmentation in deep (>500m) submarine settings is highly unlikely due to the confining pressure of the overlying water column, there are documented examples of powerful eruption at those or greater water depths. For instances where this process is deemed highly unlikely in deep settings, insights from the HTHH2022 event suggesting deep crustal mechanisms for powerful eruption are useful.
This project will study examples of proposed submarine caldera-forming events at a range of ocean depths. The research will distinguish whether fragmental eruption products on submarine volcanoes are likely to originate from explosive or lava-forming eruptions. This knowledge will provide the data urgently needed to reassess the risk of submarine volcanoes in volcanic arcs.
Specifically, the project will:
- Study the architecture of submarine caldera volcanoes in the Izu-Bonin, Kermadec and Tonga arcs
- Conduct volcanological and analytical research on the products of caldera-forming eruptions
- Use numerical models to predict the likelihood of explosive or effusive eruptions for magmas of variable silicic composition at a range of depths
- Assess how eruption drivers can be considered in hazard assessments and risk calculations for submarine volcanoes
The outcomes of this project will be used to understand the drivers of powerful submarine volcanism and caldera formation. These outcomes will be used to enhance models for predicting volcanic behaviour and associated hazards for submarine volcanoes.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:
- a living allowance stipend funded by ARC of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Demonstrated volcanology or magmatic processes knowledge
- Quantitative skills
- Excellent written and communication skills for presenting research findings and writing scientific papers
- Willingness to collaborate and contribute to a team-oriented research environment
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Experience in conducting scientific research, including data collection, analysis and interpretation
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data and draw meaningful conclusions
- A Masters degree relevant to the earth sicence disciplines of the project
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact A/Prof Rebecca Carey to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 April 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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