PhD Research Postion on "Modelling of the African Lithosphere Combining GOCE and Seismology"
This four-year PhD position is offered within the department of Earth Systems Analysis, Faculty ITC at the University of Twente, the Netherlands, in collaboration with Utrecht University, Pennsylvania State University (USA) and is conducted within the framework of the AfricaArray project. The research is supported under NWO grant GO-AO/31 and part of the European Space Agency PI project GOCE4306
The proposed research will focus on innovative applications and combined analysis of GOCE satellite gravity data with seismological data in Africa. The research will focus on yet unexplained Earth structure on the borders of the Congo and Kalahari craton. Insight in this structure will be obtained through analysis of 3D gradient GOCE satellite gravity data and integration with surface wave tomography. For this purpose a unique seismological network will be installed to provide unprecedented seismological coverage to strengthen the satellite gravity inversions and provide unique geodynamical and compositional information on a previously poorly studied region. The candidate will focus on the development of a subsurface models based on satellite gravity and seismological data.
The candidate will derive information on crust and upper mantle structure underneath station through receiver function analysis and in between through surface wave modeling and analysis of satellite gravity (gradient) data. This work will finally result in a compositional and geodynamic model for the region. It is expected to write a PhD thesis (based on articles) within the project duration of four years. Information concerning the research activities of the department of Earth Systems Analysis at the University of Twente can be found at http://www.itc.nl/4D-EARTH.