Hi all,
A PhD position is available at the Tectonophysics group of Utrecht
University, the Netherlands, titled: "Thermo-mechanical modelling of
accretion, collision and extension along the
Aegean-Anatolian-Bitlis/Zagros convergent plate boundary, with
implications for the Cenozoic geodynamical evolution of Anatolia"
Please forward this message to those who may be interested!
For more information, contact Dr. Rob Govers ([log in to unmask]) or Prof.
Rinus Wortel ([log in to unmask])
Project description
The collision of the Africa-Arabian and Eurasian plates – a first order
process in itself - has led to the formation of the land-locked basin
setting which has controlled the subsequent evolution of the Mediterranean
region. The long-term convergence of the two major plates was accompanied
by large scale accretion of continental blocks and fragments, as well as
of oceanic fragments in the form of ophiolites (van Hinsbergen et al.,
Geology, 33, 325-328, 2005). In the Aegean region extension started
already during ongoing subduction and accretion in the Eocene, whereas in
the Anatolian region the post-collisional phase is characterized by the
development (in M-L. Miocene) of the North Anatolian Fault, along which
Anatolia is extruded in westerly direction.
In this project, focus is on the lithospheric scale dynamics of the
Oligocene/Miocene to Recent evolution of the Aegean/Anatolian region
starting from the Bitlis/Zagros collision. Our approach centers around
numerical modelling in combination with geological, geodetical and
geophysical (in particular seismological) data. We investigate the thermal
and rheological structure of the accreted plate boundary zone, the
lithospheric stress field and the regional scale deformation processes
resulting from the transient dynamics of the convergence /collision
process. Specific sub-topics are subduction zone evolution, including
continental accretion and slab rupturing, transitional plate boundary
behaviour, and modes of extensional deformation.
We aim at elucidating the lithosphere dynamics of the region beyond the
basic notion of Anatolia being extruded to the west by the convergence of
Eurasia and Arabia.
This project is part of the ISES Integrated Programme on Europe-Africa
convergence (EURAF). Strong connections between this project and several
other EURAF projects (EURAF nrs 1-2-3-5-7-11-12) are envisaged.
ISES = Integrated Solid Earth Science , a collaborative programme of
Utrecht University, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Delft University of
Technology. Europe-Africa convergence and its consequences
( EURAF) is one of the central topics of the programme.
Position
We offer a full-time Ph.D. position for a period of four years, with the
intent that it results in a doctorate in Geophysics. Conditions are based
on the Collective Employment Agreement of the Dutch Universities. The
gross monthly salary starts at € 1813 in the first year and increases to €
2394 in the fourth year and is supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8%
per year. We also offer a pension scheme, a health insurance allowance and
flexible employment conditions. The Ph.D. candidate will be based at the
Earth Sciences Institute in Utrecht.
Qualifications
For this Ph.D. project we seek an outstanding individual with a recent
M.Sc. or equivalent degree, who can demonstrate an excellent background in
mathematics and physics, and specifically continuum mechanics. Proficiency
in at least one modern computer language is a necessity. Experience with
tools for the numerical solution of partial differential equations is
appreciated. The successful candidate is able to demonstrate an interest
in Earth processes and in geophysical and geological observations. She/he
communicates easily in English, both verbally and in writing.
--
Dr. D.J.J. van Hinsbergen
Paleomagnetic Laboratory 'Fort Hoofddijk'
Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University
Budapestlaan 17
3584 CD Utrecht
The Netherlands
phone: +31 30 2531676
[log in to unmask]
www.geologist.nl
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