Postdoctoral Research Associate

RFCSR; North East; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Durham University’s Department of Earth Sciences invites applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate role focused on critical mineral resources and subsurface geology. The project explores crystalline reservoir approaches to critical mineral supply, with collaboration from Weardale Lithium Ltd to advance understanding of reservoir systems.

The successful candidate will conduct quantitative research, refine resource estimates, and work within an interdisciplinary team in a

Qualifications

• PhD in Structural Geology or a related discipline is required.
• Experience with quantitative research, fracture data collection and interpretation is essential.
• Familiarity with subsurface geological characterisation and statistical methods is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research activities supporting project objectives.
• Refine resource estimation and perform fracture data analysis.
• Collaborate with industry partners such as Weardale Lithium Ltd to advance understanding of crystalline reservoir systems.

Skills

Quantitative research

Fracture data analysis

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Structural Geology or related discipline

Job description

Durham University’s Department of Earth Sciences is inviting applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate role that contributes to a focused research endeavour on critical mineral resources and subsurface geology as part of the project titled “Li‑berating the subsurface: A Crystalline Reservoir Approach to Critical Mineral Supply.” This project, funded by the Northern Net Zero Accelerator, builds on Durham’s internationally recognised research strengths in Earth Science and seeks to apply innovative reservoir characterisation methods to critical mineral supply challenges in the UK context.

The successful postholder will play an active part in research activities that support partner objectives, including resource estimation refinement, fracture data analysis, and collaborating with industry partners such as Weardale Lithium Ltd to advance understanding of crystalline reservoir systems. The role offers a blend of independent research and team collaboration within a vibrant academic community based in a historic and scenic university city.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates should hold a PhD in Structural Geology or a related discipline, with experience aligned to the research theme. Those who have recently completed their doctoral studies or are close to completion may also be considered if their expertise matches the role’s requirements.

Require expertise, skills

Applicants will need quantitative research experience, particularly in fracture data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Familiarity with subsurface geological characterisation, statistical methods for geological datasets, and strong communication skills — including the ability to work within interdisciplinary research collaborations — are essential. The post also calls for flexibility in research approaches and effective teamwork.

Salary details

Specific salary details were not disclosed in the available summary, but academic postdoctoral roles in the UK typically offer competitive salaries commensurate with research experience.

Application Deadline

The closing date for applications is Sunday 22 February 2026.