A PhD opportunity is available in New Zealand in the field of geothermal geophysics as part of the DeepHeat programme on supercritical geothermal studies.
The Victoria University of Wellington and Earth Sciences New Zealand (formerly GNS Science) are advertising an open PhD position for an exciting research project as part of the New Zealand government-funded DeepHeat programme to improve supercritical geothermal resource exploration.
In this PhD research programme, you will apply cutting-edge geophysical imaging tools, including seismology and magnetotellurics. This will include the installation of a new seismic network in New Zealand’s geothermal fields, in close collaboration with industry partners, and alongside the drilling of one of the world’s deepest geothermal wells.
You will be a self-motivated and well-organised student with appropriate qualifications in Earth Science or Physics. Skills in Python and/or MATLAB programming are highly desirable, as are skills in both verbal and written communication in English.
The PhD programme will be supervised by Dr Finnigan Illsley-Kemp (VUW) and Dr Alison Kirkby (ESNZ) and includes a PhD stipend of $35,000 NZD per year for 3 years, with the possibility for an extra 6 months of funding. All tuition fees are covered and there is financial support for international conference attendance and fieldwork.
The position is based in the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences at Victoria University of Wellington, with start dates flexible after June 1st 2026.
Please contact Finnigan Illsley-Kemp (finnigan.illsleykemp@vuw.ac.nz) with initial interest, a CV and academic transcript. Final applications will be evaluated after 15th December 2025, with interviews in early 2026.
Source: Email correspondence