Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

Probing the subsurface is key for understanding tectonic evolution, geodynamic processes, and the footprint of mineral systems. Much of this understanding is driven by geophysical observations, with individual methods offering valuable insights into specific physical aspects of the Earth's interior. However, integrating multiple geophysical datasets can offer a more comprehensive perspective. For example, gravity inversion constrained by seismic data can refine estimates of crustal thickness and help resolve crustal density. Yet, the errors and assumptions involved in constructing constrained datasets are often not adequately addressed within traditional inversion frameworks. A flexible joint, trans-dimensional inversion approach using Bayesian methods may be better suited to manage the integration between different geophysical components.

This PhD research project aims to develop novel tools that integrate seismic and gravity data at different scales for improved image crustal structures and properties. The PhD candidate will drive the development of trans-dimensional Bayesian inversion code to jointly invert seismic (e.g., surface wave tomography and receiver functions) and gravity data. Depending on results, integration of magnetotelluric data might be investigated. The goal is to create tools that bridge multiphysical observations and effectively reduce and quantify uncertainties.

The tool will be tested using datasets from Australia to refine our understanding of crustal structure and thickness. The improved models will contribute to a deeper understanding of tectonic evolution and mineral systems. 

The PhD student will have opportunities to work and collaborate with universities researchers, and multidisciplinary researchers in CSIRO.

Research Training Program

Willingness to learn.
Degree in earth sciences, math, physics, or connected field.

The research will be based at the Centre for Exploration Targeting (School of Earth Sciences) at the University of Western Australia (Perth, Australia) within a dynamic team of students and researchers specialising in geophysics, mathematics, geology and statistics. The projects will be carried out in close collaboration with CSIRO and may involve other collaborating institutions. 

Applicants will need to apply for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship to cover tuition fees at UWA and living expenses.

International scholarship round for commencement in 2026 

Close: 31 August 2025 (23:59 AWST) for international applications 

Close: 31 October 2025 (23:59 AWST) for domestic applications 

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. 

Visit the course webpage for full details of this course including admission requirements, course rules and the relevant CRICOS code/s.