University of Alberta

Graduate student opportunities in magnetotellurics starting in summer 2010

PLUTONS - 1 PhD student needed

This project was recently funded by NSF and will involve a study of two volcanos on the Altiplano in South America. At both Uturuncu and Lastarria the surface is being uplifted, strongly suggesting that magma is being intruded at depth. These locations give an ideal location to study pluton formation in real time. An integrated research program of geology and geophysics will be undertaken at each volcano.

The University of Alberta will make detailed MT measurements at each volcano to study the magmatic system. In addition a regional MT profile across the Andes will be recorded from Salta to Antofagasta.

ALBERTA ARRAY - 1 PhD or MSc student needed

This project is deploying a grid of MT stations across Alberta and British Columbia to study the lithospheric structure. Data will be collected with the 15 University of Alberta NIMS instruments. The grid of stations in Canada will be an extension of the USArray program in the United States.

The MT data will be used in a 3-D inversion. The resistivity models will map variations in lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary depth, and constrain the tectonic evolution of western Canada.

This project will involve MT fieldwork, data processing and interpretation.

Requirements

  • Potential students should have a Bachelors or Masters degree in Geophysics, Physics or Geology.
  • Both projects will involve extensive MT fieldwork, so some field experience is useful.
  • PLUTONS will require field trips in South America so enthusiasm for hiking and camping would be useful.
  • Canadian students should consult the University of Alberta Admission Requirements for GPA requirements.
  • Overseas students should check the English Language and GPA requirements

How to apply

More information