PhD research in metamorphic petrology and tectonics, southeastern Yukon Territory, Canada
Supervisor and institution: Dave Pattison,
University of Calgary (pattison@ucalgary.ca)
Collaborating partner: David Moynihan, Yukon
Geological Survey (david.moynihan@gov.yk.ca)
Start dates: Summer 2015 (field work), September
2015 (academic term)
Project: Applications are invited for a PhD
study focussing on the metamorphic and tectonic history of the upper Hyland
River area of southeastern Yukon. The aim of the study is to understand the
extent, origin and significance of a large region of amphibolite-facies,
low-pressure metamorphism centred on the Logan and Mt. Billings batholiths.
Questions to be addressed include: the nature and extent of amphibolite-facies
metamorphism; the nature of deformation associated with amphibolite-facies
metamorphism; the relative and absolute timing of metamorphism, plutonism and
deformation; and the structural relationships between amphibolite-facies
regions and adjacent low-grade domains. Metamorphic petrology will be combined
with structural analysis and modern geochronological techniques to provide a
tectonic synthesis of the area and elucidate its significance for the
development of the northern Cordilleran orogen. The project will have a large
field component, which will be carried out in collaboration with the Yukon
Geological Survey. In addition to documenting and interpreting regional
geology, it is anticipated that the student will use the information obtained
to address process-oriented questions in metamorphic petrology.
Activities: 1:50,000-scale bedrock mapping,
isograd mapping, metamorphic petrography and petrology, phase equilibrium
modelling, structural and microstructural analysis, U-Pb and 40Ar/39Ar
geochronology.
Expectations: In addition to producing a thesis,
the student will be expected to present their work orally/in poster form at
relevant workshops and meetings during their program, contribute to annual
reports for the Yukon Geological Survey, and have published or submitted
approximately three peer-reviewed papers upon graduation. The student may also
be asked to contribute to applications for external research and travel
support. The student will be expected to work as a teaching assistant in
support of University of Calgary undergraduate classes and field schools.
Support: Teaching assistantship during academic
year, YGS summer salary, research and travel expenses.
Requirements: MSc or strong BSc. Background in
petrography, metamorphic petrology and structural geology.Applicants
should have an interest in field geology and previous bedrock mapping
experience. They should be physically fit as well as being comfortable
traversing rugged terrain and camping in remote locations (2-person fly-camps)
for extended periods of time. Some GIS experience would be beneficial. Above
all, self-motivation, a real interest in petrology and geology, and a desire to
pose questions and solve problems independently. Candidates must be eligible to
work in Canada by March, 2015, have a valid driver's licence, and be eligible
to obtain a firearms possession and acquisition licence (PAL).
Application materials: CV; summary of academic
record (transcript); statement of interest (including qualifications,
motivation); names and contact information for three references.
Deadline to apply: January 19, 2015
Contact details and link to web site for information
about Pattison’s research group:
Dr. David Pattison
Department of Geoscience, University of Calgary
2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, CANADA T2N 1N4
Email: pattison [at] ucalgary.ca
