Jobs and Careers

• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team and contribute to the broader geodynamics research community
• Develop and run 3-D numerical models of mantle plume dynamics
• Full time, 2 Year Fixed-Term position, based in Hobart

About the opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate in Geodynamics to join the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) in Hobart for a two-year research-focused appointment. This position will contribute to a cutting-edge project investigating mantle plume dynamics and their surface expressions, with a focus on idealised 3-D geodynamic modelling. The successful candidate will develop and analyse numerical models to explore how plume-lithosphere interactions influence melt production, geochemical signatures, and dynamic topography, using constraints from regions such as Balleny, Denman/Gaussberg, and Kerguelen.

Working within a collaborative and interdisciplinary team, the Research Associate – Geodynamics will have the opportunity to transition modelling approaches from Fluidity to the G-ADOPT framework, and engage with geochemical datasets to test hypotheses about plume temperature, lithospheric architecture, and transient plume behaviour. This role offers a unique chance to contribute to global geodynamics research while building a quantitative framework linking deep Earth processes to surface observations.

What you’ll do:

• Develop and run 3-D numerical models of mantle plume dynamics, incorporating lithospheric structure and ridge proximity.
• Analyse model outputs to assess melt volumes, geochemical trends, and dynamic topography, using constraints from East Antarctic and Southern Ocean volcanic regions (e.g. Balleny, Denman/Gaussberg, and Kerguelen).
• Transition modelling workflows from Fluidity to the G-ADOPT framework, contributing to the development of plume modelling capabilities within G-ADOPT.
• Undertake high-quality research/scholarly activities under limited supervision either independently or as a member of a team,
• Publish high-quality research outputs in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Make an effective and sustained contribution to the University in achieving its strategic objectives and fulfilling its operational responsibilities.
• Undertake other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

What we’re looking for:

• A PhD in geodynamics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in geodynamic modelling, ideally with Fluidity or similar frameworks, and an interest in transitioning to G-ADOPT.
• Strong understanding of mantle plume processes, lithospheric structure, and geochemical constraints
• Experience in analysing and interpreting numerical model outputs in the context of geological and geochemical data.
• A record of contributing to collaborative research and maintaining productive academic networks.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level A and will have a total remuneration package of up to $125,877 comprising base salary within the range of $83,198 to $107,587 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the success criteria.
• For further information about this position, please contact Jo Whittaker, ARC Future Fellow, jo.whittaker@utas.edu.au or 03 6226 6367.
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description -501583 -Research Associate – Geodynamics.pdf

Applications close Wednesday, 5 November 2025, 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.