JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title:
Research Associate
Job Family and level:
Level B, Research and Education Job
Family
Reporting to:
Dr Saskia Goes
Liaison with:
Academics, Research Staff, Under and
Postgraduate Students
Key Working Relationships
Dr Saskia Goes
Key Working Relationships (external):
Dr Gabriele Morra, Professor Claudio
Faccenna, Dr Francesca Funiciello
(Roma Tre University, Italy)
Dr Fabio Capitanio, Professor Louis
Moresi (Monash University, Australia)
Summary of the Post:
Dynamic numerical modelling of 3-D
subduction
The Purpose of the Post:
The aim of the project is to explore how 3-D variation in the lithospheric structure of
the downgoing plate determines subduction behaviour. This will be done by using
numerical models to characterise how downgoing plate buoyancy and rheology affect
subduction motions and morphology, and comparing model results with observations
from major subduction zones around the Pacific. Part of the project involves
collaboration with the geodynamic groups at Roma Tre and Monash Universities. The
job is based at the Department of Earth Science and Engineering at Imperial College
London.
Key Responsibilities:
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Setting up 3-D dynamic subduction models for variable downgoing
lithospheric properties, using a range of finite-element (FEM), boundaryelement (BEM) and combined FEM-BEM models developed by Gabriele
Morra
Defining and running a suite of models that systematically evaluates the
effects of variable density and rheology of the downgoing plate, on subduction
motions and slab morphology
Compare and benchmark model results with other analogue and numerical
approaches
Compare model results with existing geophysical and geological observations
from major subduction zones to determine the importance of downgoing plate
buoyancy in controlling natural subduction
Work well within the group of staff and researchers with geodynamic interests
at Imperial, potentially participating in supervision of undergraduate and
graduate student research projects and collaborate well with our international
partners
Present research results at international conferences and publish in highranking international journals
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To comply with relevant College policies, including Financial Regulations,
Equal Opportunities Policy, Promoting Race Equality Policy, Health and
Safety Policy, Information Systems Security Policy and Intellectual Property
Rights and Register of Interests Policies
Job descriptions cannot be exhaustive and the post-holder may, from time-to-time,
be required to undertake other duties, which are broadly in line with the above key
responsibilities.
Imperial College is committed to equality of opportunity and to eliminating
discrimination. All employees are expected to adhere to the principles set out
in its Equal Opportunities in Employment Policy, Promoting Race Equality
Policy and Disability Policy and all other relevant guidance/practice
frameworks.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Applicants are required to demonstrate that they possess the following attributes:
Qualifications:
Completed a PhD (or equivalent) in Geophysics before starting in the post
 Provide evidence of significant and relevant scientific publications
Experience and Knowledge:
Extensive experience in numerical fluid-dynamical and/or solid-mechanical modelling
of mantle convection and/or lithospheric deformation.
 Good geodynamic understanding
Experience of writing papers for highly regarded, peer-reviewed journals, and giving
presentations at international conferences and/or academic institutions
The following skills, experience would be desirable:
Experience in solid-mechanical modelling
 Experience with finite-element modelling and or boundary element modelling
 Experience with the code Abaqus
Background in subduction dynamics
 Familiarity with the type of geophysical and/or geological constraints we may use
for the models (e.g., plate motions, seismic tomography, gravity)
Programming skills (e.g., in Fortran, C, C++, matlab) that are sufficient to (a)
understand the sources of the codes used, (b) make modifications/additions, (c) write
own codes/scripts for processing and plotting input/output
 Experienced Unix/Linux user
Skills and Abilities:
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Good oral and written English
A demonstrated ability for innovation and original research
Good organisational and multi-tasking abilities
Ability to exercise initiative and judgment in carrying out research tasks
Ability to write clearly and concisely to a level consistent with publication in highly
regarded international journals
Ability to lead writing of scientific peer reviewed publications
 Ability to relate appropriately to others and to work as part of a team
 Self-motivated and capable of formulating, planning, and carrying out a complex
research programme
 Good communication skills
 Ability to collaborate well via e-mail/phone contact
 Willingness to spend some time working in Rome and Melbourne
 Highly motivated and able to quickly develop skills necessary to carry out the
described work