Project Description
Primary Supervisor - Dr Zoja Vukmanovic
Scientific background
Anorthosites represent one of the most unique and widely debated rock formations in Earth's crust. They are characterised by their almost monomineralic plagioclase composition, making them unusual among intrusive bodies. These rocks have been central to advancing our understanding of the formation of the Earth's Moon and potentially other planetary bodies. However, the origin of their monomineralic nature remains contentious, with no clear consensus regarding their source (mantle versus crust), tectonic setting, or emplacement mechanisms. Beyond their scientific significance, they have economic significance as they are associated with economically important Fe-Ti oxide deposits. The study area for this project is the Rogaland Anorthosite Complex in southern Norway, the largest massif-type anorthosite complex in Europe. The project will focus on the Egersund-Ogna massif and its associated ore bodies.
Research methodology
The project will address three key questions:
- What are the main dynamic flow regimes within large anorthosite plutons (e.g. magma mixing and convection within anorthosite magma chambers)?
- What was the emplacement mechanism of the Egersund-Ogna massif?
- How are the lenticular ore bodies related to the broader architecture of the Egersund-Ogna massif?
The project will rely on 1) fieldwork and petrography; 2) electron backscatter diffraction analyses EBSD; 3) Magnetic fabric analysis and electron microprobe and 4) mineral chemistry. Fieldwork will be carried out in year 1 (two weeks) on Egersund – Ogna pluton, south-west Norway.
Training
The student will receive bespoke training in (1) digital (i.e. tablet-based) and traditional (i.e. pen and paper) mapping techniques; (2) petrology and advanced microstructural analysis; (3) rock magnetic techniques. Training will be largely one-to-one, working closely with supervisors at their modern laboratory facilities. Student will also have access to ARIES training program, providing further opportunities for professional and research skills development.
Person specification
We are looking for applicants that have a BSc/MSc in Geology or related discipline, enthusiasm for fieldwork, and a strong motivation to succeed. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who wish to mould this project around their research interests who have an interest in petrography and structural geology.
Entry Requirements
At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).
Funding
ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£21,805 p.a. for 2026/27) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees being waived by the registering university. Please note, however, that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.
ARIES is committed to equality, diversity, widening participation and inclusion in all areas of its operation. We encourage applications from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation and transgender status. Projects have been developed with consideration of a safe, inclusive and appropriate research and fieldwork environment. Academic qualifications are considered alongside non-academic experience, with equal weighting given to experience and potential.
After submitting their application for the relevant ARIES project(s), applicants are expected to complete the ARIES Equality and Diversity Form Applicants - 2027 Entry – Fill in form. One form is required per application, so applicants applying to more than one project must complete a separate form for each.
Please visit www.aries-dtp.ac.uk for further information.
References
Vukmanovic, Zoja, et al. "The Skaergaard trough layering: sedimentation in a convecting magma chamber." Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology 173.5 (2018): 43.
Vukmanovic, Zoja, et al. "The creation and evolution of crystal mush in the Upper Zone of the Rustenburg Layered Suite, Bushveld Complex, South Africa." Journal of Petrology 60.8 (2019): 1523-1542.
McCarthy, William, et al. "Distinguishing diapirs from inflated plutons: an integrated rock magnetic fabric and structural study on the Roundstone Pluton, western Ireland." Journal of the Geological Society 172.5 (2015): 550-565.
Charlier, Bernard, et al. "Polybaric fractional crystallization of high-alumina basalt parental magmas in the Egersund–Ogna massif-type anorthosite (Rogaland, SW Norway) constrained by plagioclase and high-alumina orthopyroxene megacrysts." Journal of Petrology 51.12 (2010): 2515-2546
Duchesne, Jean-Clair. "Fe-Ti deposits in Rogaland anorthosites (South Norway): geochemical characteristics and problems of interpretation." Mineralium Deposita 34.2 (1999): 182-198
