Two x 3-year PhD scholarships are available on ARC Discovery project entitled ‘Linking extant biolipids to ancient biomolecules using innovative analytical pyrolysis techniques’. commencing mid 2010 in WA-OIGC (<http://wa-oigc.curtin.edu.au/>http://wa ... in.edu.au/) an internationally recognised organic and isotope geochemistry centre, Department of Chemistry at Curtin University, Perth, WA).
Innovative analytical pyrolysis methods in combination with contemporary compound specific molecular and stable isotopic analysis will be used to extend biomarker characterisation in sediments and petroleum. Laser micropyrolysis will be used to access trace hydrocarbons (fluid inclusions; source rock macerals) for improved petroleum-source appraisal. Hydro-pyrolysis will be used to thermally release gas chromatographically resolvable products from extant biolipids to establish new source-biomarker relationships, and evaluate the sedimentary distribution of relevant biomarkers to improve our understanding of petroleum occurrences, palaeoclimates, species evolution and mass extinction. The scholarships are open to national and international applicants.
A early-career-senior research fellowship position (2 years) is available on the same project - experience in analytical pyrolysis & stable isotopes is essential. Project support also comes from an ARC Discovery grant.
For more information please contact:
Prof. Kliti Grice, WA-OIGC
Department of Chemistry, Curtin University
GPO Box U1987
Perth, WA 6845
Australia
Email: <mailto:K.Grice@curtin.edu.au> K.Grice@curtin.edu.au<mailto:K.Grice@curtin.edu.au>
Phone: +61(0)8 9266 2474
Fax: +61(0)8 9266 3547