Research Supervisor Connect
The PhD is in an exciting interdisciplinary project, developing cutting-edge numerical approaches for (i) understanding source-to-sink systems at regional to global scales, and (ii) utilising geochronology, geochemistry and thermochronology to calibrate and evaluate goSPL landscape simulations on the local, regional and global scales. It is ideal for a person who is interested in applying numerical landscape evolution modelling and its application to coupled tectonics and source-to-sink systems. Competitive applicants will have prior experience with developing innovative numerical geoscience workflows, as well as a keen interest in the interplay of sedimentology, structural geology, Earth resources, and the crustal geochemistry-geochronology-thermochronology record. Applicants require a degree in a related discipline.
Research interests: My research aims to better our understanding of how the Earth has evolved and operates by studying the thermal and tectonic history of the crust in relation to the growth and breakup of continents, and the long-term evolution of landscapes. To do this, I integrate field observations and structural geology with thermochronology, geochronology, geochemistry and numerical Earth system modelling techniques.
Research location/building: Madsen Building
Project keywords: landscape evolution; numerical modelling; earth surface processes; geochronology; tectonics; source-to-sink
The successful candidate will join a dynamic team of Earth scientists at the University of Sydney. We have a recognised track record in community software development, whole-Earth modelling, open-access data sets, and applied geochronology-thermochronology. We foster cross-disciplinary collaboration across a range of interests and research areas in Australia and overseas. Opportunities to attend national and international conferences are encouraged to disseminate scientific research and collaborate with researchers and industry partners.
If you would like to discuss this project, please do not hesitate to contact the project supervisors: Dr Samuel Boone, A/Prof Tristan Salles and Dr Sabin Zahirovic
Position will start between October 2025 and March 2026.
Who's eligible?
You must:
• hold an Honours degree (first class or second class upper) or a Master's degree in a related field with a substantial research component, and
• be willing to collaborate with industry partners and co-funders BHP,
• be willing to conduct research into quantitative plate tectonic and landscape modelling,
• have a proven track record of developing innovative numerical workflows for geoscience research
• have a background in geosciences, mathematics, computer sciences or a related field.
• Prior experience with numerical plate tectonic, thermomechanical and/or landscape evolution modelling will be highly valued.
• Familiarity with geochronology-thermochronology systems is also favourable.
PhD scholarship associated with this HDR opportunity: Postgraduate Research Scholarship in Geochronology-Calibrated Deep Time Global Landscape Evolution Models. Applications for the Project and its 3-year PhD stipend scholarship (subject to satisfactory academic performance) can be lodged here: https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/d/postgraduate-research-scholarship-in-geochronology-calibrated-de.html. The recipient may apply for an extension of the stipend allowance for up to six months.
The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3641