Missions

The candidate will work in the framework of the GEOASTRONOMY project, which is a collaborative ERC project, involving PIs in Orléans (F. Gaillard, Fr), Munich (K. Heng, Ger) and Bayreuth (S. Mojzsis, Ger). The mission is to resolve several issues on the broad topic of solubility of (C-O-H-N-S-P) volatile elements in silicate magma in the exotic Pressure-Temperature-Composition parameter space covered by exoplanetary systems. A priority is given to the solubility of H2 in silicate melts. The sub-sequent missions will be decided with the candidate. The candidate will use internally heated pressure vessels, piston-cylinders, multi-anvil and diamond-anvil presses plus many analytical facilities (including synchrotron), which are well adapted to the probing of these volatile components. For each equipment, we have topnotch technical support at ISTO and LMV as well as in the laboratories of the GEOASTRONOMY partners. The aim of such experiments is to capture the chemical foundations ruling planetary interior – atmosphere exchanges in order to pave the way for the interpretation of astrophysical observations on exoplanets. At ISTO and LMV, the candidate will work with Prof. Fabrice Gaillard and Prof. Denis Andrault and Prof. Ali Bouhifd. The candidate will also collaborate with a group of researchers addressing complementary topics and methodology such as Thermodynamic modelling of multi-component planetary degassing/ingassing, Molecular Dynamic simulations of silicate melts, Petrology of melting of exoplanetary mantles, and the partitioning of light elements in planetary cores, plus other Astrochemical simulations and modelling actions involving the ERC partners in Munich and Bayreuth.

Activities

The candidate is expected to
• conduct, analyze and interpret experimental results obtained at high pressure and temperature
• discuss results with a group of local collaborators
• expose and share results with the ERC partners
• present results in international congress
• publish results in international journals
• collaborate with other fellows involved in GEOASTRONOMY

Skills

Required Expertise:
• a PhD in experimental petrology is required
• a scientific background on the topic of volatile elements and/or magmas is required
• experience in the use of piston-cylinders or multi-anvil or diamond-anvil presses is required
• independence thinking and writing skill are needed
• capacity to work and communicate in a research group is required

Work Context

The work will be conducted at CNRS ISTO, Orléans, and specific experimental tasks will be conducted at LMV, Clermont-Ferrand.

ISTO is located on a green campus on the edge of Sologne. A dynamic local social action center is available.

Constraints and risks

Regular group meetings and travels in France and in Europe are planned