Supervisors

Dr Thomas Jones (Lancaster University, UK)

Professor Kelly Russell (University of British Columbia, Canada)

Project Description

Mantle xenoliths—foreign fragments of the Earth’s mantle lithosphere incorporated into magmas—are a common occurrence within volcanic deposits spanning a wide range of magma compositions and eruption styles. They are frequently used in alkaline and low-silica magmas (e.g., basalts, kimberlites, basanites, nephelinites) to ‘view’ the underlying mantle lithosphere, revealing information about its mineralogical and geochemical composition, thermal state, structural properties, and age. However, despite the widespread use of mantle xenoliths, we do not fully understand the physical processes behind how they are entrained into magmas, transported from depth, and erupted at the Earth’s surface. During this Masters by Research studentship you will investigate these physical processes by examining a suite of mantle xenoliths. Laboratory measurements will generate 3-D models of the xenoliths and enable quantitative descriptions of xenolith size and shape. These new data will be used in transport and eruption models. Their internal texture and petrography will be studied under scanning electron microscopy. Together, these combined laboratory methods will unravel how mantle xenoliths are transported and how they are distributed during explosive volcanic eruptions.

The opportunity, support, and training

You will join a multi-disciplinary team within the Lancaster Environment Centre, one of the largest groupings focused on environment-orientated research in Europe. You will also be part of Dr Jones’ Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (GFD) research laboratory and the wider volcanology research group featuring multiple academic staff, post-docs, PhD, and MSc/MRes students. The GFD lab is a new (2022) multi-million-pound research facility generously funded by UKRI, NERC and the Royal Society. Training will cover aspects of physical volcanology, petrology, and fluid dynamics. You will learn how to use specialist laboratory equipment for sample characterisation thereby developing your observational, petrological, mineralogical, and analytical skills You will enhance your scientific writing and presentation skills during group meetings.

General eligibility criteria

Enthusiasm, independence, self-motivation, curiosity, and the ability to communicate to a range of audiences are all distinctly advantageous qualities for postgraduate research. Applicants would normally be expected to hold a minimum of a UK Honours degree or equivalent at 2:1 level or above in a relevant subject area. However, applicants who have gained experience in relevant fields through non-traditional routes are strongly encouraged to apply. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, candidates who are in the first generation of their family to go to university, candidates who have been in care or who have been a young carer, mature students, and candidates from a low-income background. English language requirements for overseas students can be found on our entry requirements webpage.

Project specific criteria

We are looking for an enthusiastic and determined student who values the opportunity to work on this innovative and timely project. The project would suit candidates from many backgrounds such as geology, environmental science, geography, and engineering or be able to demonstrate the required skills. No prior knowledge of volcanology is required. The candidate will be supported by experienced supervisors with backgrounds in physical volcanology, petrology, and laboratory experimentation and will receive appropriate training.

Studentship funding

Full studentship (UK tuition fees and tax-free stipend in line with current UKRI rates, £20,780 for 25/26) for UK students for 1 year. No additional funding is available for international students.

Enquires

Interested applicants are welcome and strongly encouraged to get in touch to learn more about the MSc-R project. Please contact Dr Thomas Jones thomas.jones@lancaster.ac.uk for more information.

Key dates

Deadline for applications: Position open until filled. Early applications are advised as we will begin reviewing applications on 2 July 2025.

Start Date: 1 October 2025

Further reading

Russell, J.K. and Jones, T.J., 2023. Transport and eruption of mantle xenoliths creates a lagging problem. Communications Earth & Environment, 4(1), p.177.

Jones, T.J., Russell, J.K., Brown, R.J. and Hollendonner, L., 2022. Melt stripping and agglutination of pyroclasts during the explosive eruption of low viscosity magmas. Nature Communications, 13(1), p.992.

Campbell, M.E., Russell, J.K. and Porritt, L.A., 2013. Thermomechanical milling of accessory lithics in volcanic conduits. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 377, pp.276-286.

Application process

1. Download the LEC Funded PhD Application Form and LEC Funded PhD Reference Form
2. Complete the Application Form, renaming the document with your 'Name and Application Form' e.g., Joe Bloggs Application Form.
3. Submit the completed Application Form and a CV to thomas.jones@lancaster.ac.uk
4. Please note only Word or pdf files are accepted.
5. Rename the referee form with your ‘Name and Reference’, e.g., Joe Bloggs Reference. Send the renamed reference form to two referees and request them to forward the referee document to thomas.jones@lancaster.ac.uk
6. Please note only Word or pdf files are accepted. It is important that you ensure references are submitted by the closing date or as soon as possible.
7. You will receive a generic acknowledgement in receipt of successfully sending the application documents.
8. Please note that only applications submitted as per these instructions will be considered.
9. Please note that, if English is not your first language, you will be required to provide evidence of your proficiency in English. This evidence is only required if you are offered a funded MSc-R and is not required as part of this application process.
10. Please note that, if you do not hear from us within four weeks of the closing date then you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. If you would like feedback on your application, please contact the supervisors of the project.

Submit all applications and references to this email address: thomas.jones@lancaster.ac.uk