Planet MARS: 07 PhDs in Geophysics, Geochemistry, and Geodynamics 1346 views

The Department of Earth Sciences at ETH Zurich is inviting applications to recruit 7 PhD candidates to work on a broad range of topics on Mars.

About the project:

• The aim of the project is to find out and characterize the nature of Mars’ interior structure and dynamics using a broad range of observations as well as theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches.
• This project is ETH-funded, builds upon the successful landing and acquisition of data from the NASA Mars InSight (Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport) lander. InSight is the first robotic explorer to study crust, mantle, and core of Mars with the goal of answering key questions about the early formation of the inner solar system rocky planets and exoplanets. InSight also measures tectonic activity and meteorite impacts on Mars today.

Available projects:

1. Single-station seismology on Mars (J. Clinton)
2. Magma reservoirs on Mars: Controls on differentiation processes and crust formation (O. Bachmann)
3. Elasticity of a hydrous Martian mantle (M. Murakami)
4. Fractional crystallization of the Martian magma ocean (M. Schmidt)
5. The accretion history of Mars (M. Schönbächler)
6. Seismic resolution of the Martian crust (S. Stähler)
7. Joint structural inversion of the Martian mantle and core (A. Khan and J. Noir)

Requirements:

• Applicants must hold Master’s degree in Earth science or an equivalent degree in natural sciences (Math, Physics, and Chemistry).
• Applicants must possess a strong background and interest in numerical and theoretical geophysics, seismology, experimental petrology, mineral physics, geochemistry, and volcanology.
• Applicants are expected to be proficient in written and spoken English.

How to apply:

Apply online