MRes - Remote sensing of glacier-driven weathering and planetary analogues

Summary

Glaciers and ice sheets exist on the surface of present-day Mars, and most likely did so in the past. There is both geomorphological and mineralogical evidence for the presence of abundant liquid water on the surface of ancient Mars, including the presence of silica-enriched mineral phases that have been associated with liquid water in subglacial environments on Earth. Whether liquid water on ancient Mars existed in a predominantly warm and wet climate, or in a cold and icy climate with intermittent periods of melting, is still largely unknown, though the presence of minerals known to form through ice-driven interactions between water and bedrock are consistent with a cold and icy climate. Deglaciated areas on Earth, especially in volcanic regions, have the potential to be excellent analogues for ancient terrains on Mars and provide a unique opportunity to understand the mineralogy of landscapes previously affected by large ice sheets on both Earth and other planets. Satellite remote sensing, especially using instruments such as ASTER and EMIT, provides an invaluable tool to identify and study these areas at large scales, and can help improve our understanding of the climate of early Mars.

Using a combination of satellite remote sensing and geological datasets, the successful candidate will work to characterize the mineralogy of deglaciated areas on Earth in a region (or regions) of their choosing. Candidates should have an interest or background in remote sensing, geology, glaciology, or planetary sciences, or some combination of these topics.

Essential Criteria

To hold, or expect to achieve by 15 August, an Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) Degree or equivalent from a UK institution (or overseas award deemed to be equivalent via UK NARIC) in a related or cognate field.

Desirable Criteria

• An interest or background in remote sensing, geology, glaciology, or planetary sciences, or some combination of these topics
• Experience with programming (any language)

A proposal is NOT required with this application.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This opportunity is open to UK/ROI applicants only.

MRes studentships will be available to top ranked candidates to cover tuition fees and a Research Training Support Grant of £900. All applicants will be considered automatically for an MRes studentship. Applicants who do not receive a studentship but meet admission requirements may be offered admission on a self-funded basis.

Applicants who already hold an MRes or a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of an MRes or doctoral degree are NOT eligible to apply for an award. Applicants who hold or who are registered on a taught Master’s degree are eligible to apply.