Magma emplacement and its evolution: deciphering between magmatic and tectonic processes

Magma emplacement and its evolution: deciphering between magmatic and tectonic processes

Project Description

Supervisors

Dr Zoja Vukmanovic, School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia

Dr Gareth Fabbro, School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia

Dr Will McCarthy, University of St Andrews

Dr Eduardo Mansur, Norwegian Geological Survey

 

Scientific Background

Layered intrusions represent natural laboratories frozen in time that provide us an opportunity to study how magma cools and differentiates, and how precious metals concentrate to form ore deposits. The ore deposits found in these intrusions are critical in achieving a carbon-zero future.

However, these natural laboratories are often affected by tectonic events, overprinting the primary magmatic processes. Complicated geological histories result in modification of the mineral chemistry and rock microstructure. The study area, Bjerkreim-Sokndal (BKS) layered intrusion in Southern Norway, provides ample evidence of deformation, representing the best place to study both magmatic and tectonic processes. Apart from ilmenite (Ti) deposits, BKS has been recently identified as the most promising phosphate rock resource in Norway. The main aim of this project is to decipher between magmatic and post-emplacement microstructure to understand the formation and evolution of the intrusion.  Additionally, how deformation has affected ore mineralisation hosted in BKS in terms of their microstructure and their geochemistry.

 

 

Research Methodology

The key objectives of this project are to 1) differentiate between magmatic and post-emplacement microstructure, and 2) identify the effect of deformation on the geochemistry of the main rock-forming minerals. The completion of both objectives will entail a combination of 1) fieldwork and petrography; 2) electron backscatter diffraction analyses (University of Cambridge); 3) Magnetic fabric analysis (University of St Andrews) and 4) mineral chemistry (Norwegian Geological Survey, Trondheim). The field trip will be carried out in year 1 (two weeks) in Bjerkreim Lobe of the BKS intrusion.

 

Training

The individual will receive bespoke training in (1) digital and traditional mapping techniques (all supervisors); (2) microstructural analysis via electron backscatter diffraction analysis (EBSD), SEM, transmitted and reflected light microscopy (Vukmanovic); (3) rock magnetic techniques (McCarthy). Training will be largely one-to-one, working closely with supervisors at their modern laboratory facilities.

 

Person Specification

We are looking for applicants who have a BSc/MSc in Geology or related discipline and enthusiasm for field work and a strong motivation to succeed. We encourage applications from individuals who wish to mould this project around their research interests.

Acceptable first degree subjects: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Project code: VUKMANOVIC_UEA_ARIES26

References

  • Duchesne, J.C. and Charlier, B., 2005. Geochemistry of cumulates from the Bjerkreim–Sokndal layered intrusion (S. Norway). Part I: Constraints from major elements on the mechanism of cumulate formation and on the jotunite liquid line of descent. Lithos, 83(3-4), pp.229-254
  • Vukmanovic, Z., Holness, M.B., Monks, K. and Andersen, J.C.Ø., 2018. The Skaergaard trough layering: sedimentation in a convecting magma chamber. Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology, 173, pp.1-18.
  • Jones, Emily, et al. "Igneous layering and magma dynamics in alkaline intrusions: textural evidence for gravitational settling and compaction within cumulates." Journal of the Geological Society 182.4 (2025): jgs2024-181.
  • McCarthy, William, et al. "Distinguishing diapirs from inflated plutons: an integrated rock magnetic fabric and structural study on the Roundstone Pluton, western Ireland." Journal of the Geological Society 172.5 (2015): 550-565.
  • Bolle, O. and Duchesne, J.C., 2007. The Apophysis of the Bjerkreim–Sokndal layered intrusion (Rogaland anorthosite province, SW Norway): A composite pluton build up by tectonically-driven emplacement of magmas along the margin of an AMC igneous complex. Lithos, 98(1-4), pp.292-312

Key Information

  • This studentship has been shortlisted for funding under the UKRI NERC DLA funding scheme and will commence on 1 October 2026. The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 7 January 2026.
  • Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees being waived by the registering university. Please note, however, that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.
  • ARIES postgraduate researchers (PGRs) benefit from bespoke training and ARIES provides £2,500 to every student for access to external training, travel and conferences, on top of all Research Costs associated with the project. Excellent applicants from quantitative disciplines with limited experience in environmental sciences may be considered for an additional 3-month stipend to take advanced-level courses. Excellent applicants from quantitative disciplines with limited experience in environmental sciences may be considered for an additional 3-month stipend to take advanced-level courses.
  • ARIES is committed to equality, diversity, widening participation and inclusion in all areas of its operation. We encourage enquiries and applications from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation and transgender status. Academic qualifications are considered alongside non-academic experience, and our recruitment process considers potential with the same weighting as past experience.
  • All ARIES studentships may be undertaken on a part-time or full-time basis. International applicants should check whether there are any conditions of visa or immigration permission that preclude part-time study. All advertised project proposals have been developed with consideration of a safe, inclusive and appropriate research and fieldwork environment with respect to protected characteristics. If you have any concerns, please contact us.
  • For further information, please contact the supervisor. To apply for this Studentship, follow the instructions at the bottom of the page or click the 'apply now' link.
  • ARIES is required by our funders to collect Equality and Diversity Information from all of our applicants. The information you provide will be used solely for monitoring and statistical purposes; it will remain confidential and will be stored on the UEA SharePoint server. Data will not be shared with those involved in making decisions on the award of Studentships and will have no influence on the success of your application. It will only be shared outside of this group in an anonymised and aggregated form. You will be asked to complete the form by the University to which you apply.
  • ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Postgraduate Researchers are expected to live within reasonable distance of their host organisation for the duration of their studentship. Please see https://www.ukri.org/publications/terms-and-conditions-for-training-funding/ for more information.

Apply Now

Apply now via the  University of East Anglia Application Portal