PhD in Mathematics

This PhD project aims to identify the macro- to micro-scale structures responsible for the initial stages of hydration of dry, impermeable rocks, as well as to determine the resulting variations in rock rheology. This will be achieved by using a field-based approach and combining detailed structural analyses with quantitative (micro-) analytical techniques. The selected candidate will conduct field work in areas that expose deep portions of the continental crust in the Scandinavian Caledonides and the European Alps. As the project targets dominantly high-grade metamorphic rocks, it will also involve petrological tools and methods. The successful candidate will further engage with quantitative analytical techniques (e.g., scanning electron microscopy including electron backscatter diffraction, electron micro probe analyses) to trace micro-scale fluid pathways. It is anticipated that the selected candidate will also have the opportunity to engage with numerical tools in the final stages of the project in order to synthesize the findings. During the course of this four-year project the selected candidate will receive training in a range of field and analytical techniques, as well as numerical tools, depending on the project progress and findings. The project is based at Stockholm University, and will be supported by an international network of collaborators.