Doctoral Student-Department of Geosciences and Geography

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label Burse autorenew 2025-09-29, 17:01 history_edu Maria Dumitru
The University of Helsinki is a multidisciplinary research university which ranks among the top-20 universities in Europe. The Department of Geosciences and Geography in Faculty of Science is the leading university department of its fields in Finland and provides excellent working conditions and a friendly atmosphere.

The Department of Geosciences and Geography at the University of Helsinki is seeking a DOCTORAL STUDENT for a three-year position starting 1.4.2013. The position will be filled with a 4-month trial period.

The doctoral student will work on the project “What controls strain partitioning at obliquely convergent ocean-continent margins? 3D dynamics of crustal deformation along the western Andean margin” funded by the Research Funds of the University of Helsinki.

Project description: This project includes funding for a doctoral student and part-time research assistant to study the fundamental tectonic process of strain partitioning at obliquely convergent ocean-continent margins. The primary controls on strain partitioning behavior will be determined using fully 3D thermomechanical numerical experiments of oceanic subduction and continental deformation.

Experimental geometries will be based on the western margin of the South American Andes, where variable strain partitioning occurs along the strike of the mountain system, and results will be compared to observed fault geometries and displacements, seismic activity and geochronologic data. Understanding strain partitioning processes is important, not only for advancing our understanding of plate tectonics, but also because subduction plate margins have potential for deadly, destructive megathrust earthquakes.

Thus, deeper knowledge of strain partitioning processes may contribute to future assessment of seismic risk in these regions. The doctoral student will use modern research tools to study an exciting geologic region and work under the supervision of assistant professor David Whipp. The student will also participate in international research meetings, visit an internationally renowned research group in Canada and co-supervise a research assistant.