Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Volcano Seismology

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in Oxford is seeking a skilled researcher for a project focusing on volcanic seismicity analysis using deep learning techniques. The candidate will work with extensive seismic datasets to enhance earthquake detection levels and accuracy. A PhD in geophysics or related field is required, alongside expertise in seismic data processing and Python programming. This position offers opportunities for independent research and career development.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in seismic data processing and analysis.
• Knowledge of volcanic/geothermal processes.
• Experience managing large geophysical datasets.

Responsibilities

• Conduct retrospective analysis of volcanic seismicity using deep learning.
• Develop enhanced earthquake catalogues from seismic datasets.
• Collaborate with international partners on research projects.

Skills

Seismic data processing

Python programming for scientific computing

Quantitative skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD/DPhil in geophysics, Earth sciences, or related field

Job description

The Department of Earth Sciences are seeking a highly motivated and skilled researcher responsible for conducting a comprehensive retrospective analysis of volcanic seismicity across Costa Rica's volcanic arc using state‑of‑the‑art deep learning techniques and modern seismological processing workflows, reporting to Dr Sacha Lapins. This role offers an exciting opportunity to process multi‑year continuous seismic datasets from Costa Rica's National Seismological Network (Red Sismológica Nacional; RSN) creating enhanced earthquake catalogues that will illuminate subsurface volcanic, tectonic and geothermal processes along the volcanic arc, inform future field deployments, and serve as benchmarks for the development of new deep learning methods for volcanic seismicity.

This project will apply deep learning phase‑picking models, combined with advanced phase association, probabilistic earthquake location, and relative relocation methods, to significantly enhance earthquake detection levels and location accuracy across the volcanic arc. The post holder will also be encouraged to develop independent research directions aligned with their own interests to support career development and prepare for future funding applications or permanent academic positions.

The successful postholder will hold a PhD/DPhil in geophysics, Earth sciences, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate will have proven expertise in seismic data processing and analysis, knowledge of volcanic/geothermal processes, strong quantitative skills, and proficiency in Python for scientific computing. You should be comfortable working with large geophysical datasets, managing projects independently, and collaborating with international partners. Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) are essential, along with the ability to meet deadlines and produce publishable research.

Experience with deep learning applications in seismology, using high performance computing (HPC) environments, field experience with seismic instrumentation deployment, as well as familiarity with seismic signal processing techniques, such as phase arrival picking, phase association, earthquake location and relative relocation, are desirable attributes but not essential.