Postdoctoral Research Associate

Durham University - Biological Sciences

The Role

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) for a fixed term (6 months) to work on the ‘Li-berating the subsurface: A Crystalline Reservoir Approach to Critical Mineral Supply ‘ project funded by Northern Net Zero Accelerator. The aim of this project is to translate research methods pioneered by Durham University Earth Sciences (DU ES) on crystalline basement rock hosted oil reservoirs to critical mineral resource supply and de fine their commercial potential. The work will assist partners Weardale Lithium Ltd (WLL) to refine their estimate of mineral resource/reserves, derisk future appraisal drilling and play a role in developing low carbon energy supply chains in NE England.

The PDRA will work with Prof Ken McCaffrey as the project lead and will engage with collaborators at DU ES and the industrial partner WLL. Experience conducting quantitative research including fracture data collection, management, and analysis is essential. Excellent initiative, flexibility in work style, communication, and teamwork are highly desirable. This role could be partly hybrid with some tasks being carried out online, but capacity to carry-out in-person activities is necessary.

Candidates are expected to hold a PhD in Structural Geology or related discipline, including experience of fracture description and statistical analysis methods. The intended start date is April 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Key responsibilities:

• To conduct collaborative research to meet the objectives of the project under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• To conduct primary data collection on drill-cores and compilation of data on fracture characteristics; liaison with the industrial partner; literature review and synthesis; conceptual model development and investigating the translation potential of the research to commercial applications.
• To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include: research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
• To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
• To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding
• To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.

This post is fixed term for 6 months duration because funding is available for this fixed period only.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1st April 2026.