Description:
• Work closely with industry on regolith exploration research
• Contribute your knowledge of weathering processes and metals mobility
• Join our multi-disciplinary team at the Australian Resources Research Centre in Perth, Australia
The position:
As the discovery rate of world-class mineral deposits continues to decline in Australia, increased attention is being focused on geochemical exploration methods designed for covered terrains. Our team at CSIRO Earth Science and Resource Engineering is engaging with the mineral exploration industry to develop geochemical techniques for conducting low cost surface or near-surface sampling surveys in areas of cover. It is envisaged that large areas of ground could be tested using these techniques, aiming to significantly reduce exploration drilling costs. To this end we are seeking a Geologist/Geochemist with good knowledge and experience in the regolith domain.
Improved scientific knowledge on the mechanisms of dispersion processes, may provide improved guidelines for an assessment of the environments in which metal dispersion is possible in regolith, and the type of sample media/techniques which are most useful for exploration. The successful candidate will generate fundamental knowledge on weathering processes, landscape history and geochemical dispersion processes. As a key member of our multi-disciplinary Regolith Geoscience Team, you will be based at the CSIRO laboratories in Perth, Western Australia.
Specifically you will:
• establish architecture of transported cover and in situ regolith for interpreting the physical and chemical signature of buried mineralisation within and beneath the cover sequences;
• undertake geochemical, mineralogical, and petrological characterisation of weathered geological materials using a variety of in situ electron-optical techniques pertinent to regolith exploration;
• conduct local to district-scale geochemical orientation and dispersion studies about selected mineral deposits in the context of their weathering environment;
• interact with personnel from exploration and mining companies;
• interpret and present results to sponsors and the scientific community; in reports, papers, seminars, workshops and conferences;
• work as part of a multi-disciplinary research team.
Location: Kensington (Perth) Western Australia
Salary: AUD86K – AUD93K plus up to 15.4% superannuation (pension fund)
Tenure: 3 year term
Ref No.: WA00485
To be considered you will hold a PhD, preferably in regolith geology and exploration geochemistry, with experience and/or a keen interest in developing exploration methods for regolith-dominated terrains.
You will also have:
• knowledge of weathering processes and metals mobility;
• familiarity with analytical techniques including petrography, X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Microprobe;
• a willingness to travel to, and work in the field in Australia;
• good interpersonal and communication skills (both oral and written), including the ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary research team.
About CSIRO:
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities.
CSIRO Earth Science and Resource Engineering (CESRE) provides science and engineering solutions for the continuing growth of Australia’s resources industry whilst delivering benefits to the economy, society and the environment. For more information visit http://www.csiro.au/org/CESRE.html
To apply:
CSIRO prefers all applications to be lodged via our online careers portal. Choose “Positions Vacant” and search for Reference Number WA00485
Applications close Sunday 18 September, 2011 (11:30pm Perth time)
