EPSRC DTP – Mechanical Failure Mechanisms at High Pressure

The University of Manchester – Department of Materials
Manchester, United Kingdom

General Description
The University of Manchester invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP). This research project focuses on understanding mechanical failure mechanisms at high pressure associated with deep earthquakes. The studentship is designed to begin in October 2026 and will run for approximately 3.5 years.

Deep earthquakes, defined as those occurring at depths greater than 60 km, account for approximately 25% of all earthquakes and are primarily associated with convergent plate boundaries. These earthquakes occur within or near cold subducting oceanic lithosphere, presenting a significant theoretical challenge since brittle failure—the primary mechanism responsible for shallow earthquakes—should be suppressed under the extreme confining pressures present at depth. Various alternative mechanisms have been proposed, including transformational faulting, thermal runaway, and dehydration embrittlement, but existing experiments have not successfully reproduced the global depth distribution of deep earthquakes.

This research project will investigate the processes responsible for deep earthquake generation by combining non-destructive testing techniques with advanced high-pressure experimental apparatus. The project aims to detect and analyse “labquakes” generated during controlled high-pressure experiments. Experimental approaches will include the use of high-pressure multi-anvil techniques, potentially combined with synchrotron X-ray methods and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These experiments will test different hypotheses for earthquake mechanisms against the observed depth distribution of earthquakes worldwide.

The successful candidate will join an active research group within the Department of Materials and will work under the supervision of Dr Simon Hunt. The direction of the research will evolve according to the interests and strengths of the student while addressing key scientific questions about deep earthquake processes. The student will receive training in advanced experimental and analytical techniques and will be encouraged to present research findings at national and international conferences.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, an Upper Second Class (2:1) honours degree or equivalent in Materials Science, Geology, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a 2:1 honours degree in another subject may also be considered if they hold a Master’s degree at Merit level in Materials Science, Geology, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.

The studentship is primarily open to Home (UK) applicants and EU applicants with settled or pre-settled status. International applicants may also be considered, with eligibility assessed on a case-by-case basis.

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• Strong academic background in Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related physical science discipline
  
• Demonstrated interest in geophysics, materials behaviour under extreme conditions, or high-pressure experimentation
  
• Motivation to conduct experimental research in a multidisciplinary scientific environment
  
• Ability to analyse and interpret experimental data and scientific results
  
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for research dissemination
  
• Previous knowledge or experience in petrology, materials processing, coding, or data manipulation is advantageous but not required, as full training will be provided
  

The studentship provides a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 per year for the 2025/26 academic year, subject to annual increase) along with full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the programme.