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Research Fellow (Volcanologist/Geologist), Seismic Research Centre [REF#162-14-12 L1]
Deadline Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
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Qualifications and Experience
The successful candidate must possess at minimum, a PhD from a recognised university, which should be in Volcanology, Geology, Earth Sciences or a closely related discipline.
Candidates should also possess:
At least three (3) years’ relevant postdoctoral or professional experience in geological fieldwork related to active or potentially active volcanic systems
Experience in integrating geological observations with geophysical and/or geochemical monitoring datasets
A good record of research and publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals
Competence in geological mapping, stratigraphic analysis, and interpretation of volcanic deposits
Demonstrated expertise in at least one (1) of the following areas:
o Volcanic stratigraphy and eruption reconstruction
o Geological mapping of volcanic terrains
o Petrology and/or volcanic hazard assessments and characterisation
Candidates with the following would have an advantage:
Master’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences or a closely related discipline
Experience working within a volcano observatory or similar hazard monitoring institution
Experience in research proposal development and project management
Experience in synthesising multidisciplinary datasets for volcanic monitoring and advisory reporting
Proficiency in hazard and risk communication, and crisis management
Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for hazard mapping and spatial analysis (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS)
The following would be considered assets:
Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences or a related physical science discipline
Experience in science communication, including engagement with at-risk communities
Experience in contributing to eruption response or volcanic unrest investigations
Experience in participating in externally funded projects
Experience in the supervision of postgraduate students or Research Assistants
Familiarity with geophysical techniques relevant to or used in volcano monitoring (e.g. InSAR, thermal imaging, multispectral analysis)
Key Responsibilities
Conducting research on volcanic systems of the Eastern Caribbean, including eruptive history, magmatic processes, stratigraphy, and hazard characterisation
Contributing to volcanic monitoring and interpretation of activity in collaboration with SRC scientific and technical staff
Participating in geological field investigations and monitoring deployments across the Lesser Antilles
Contributing to volcanic hazard assessments for governments and regional disaster management agencies
Preparing scientific and technical reports, advisory documents, and peer-reviewed publications
Assisting in the preparation of research proposals and contributing to externally funded projects
Contributing to postgraduate supervision, where appropriate
Engaging in stakeholder outreach and the communication of scientific findings to non-specialist audiences
Participating in operational response activities during periods of volcanic unrest or eruption, including travel at short notice, where required
Performing other related duties as assigned by the Director of the Seismic Research Centre (SRC) or designate
Personal Attributes
The Campus places high priority on individuals of integrity who can work well in a team and student friendly environment. Candidates should also possess good communication and interpersonal skills. A good command of both oral and written English is essential.
Candidates should also:
Be able to communicate scientific information clearly and responsibly to policymakers, disaster management professionals and the public
Be able to work effectively both independently and within multidisciplinary teams
Possess strong analytical, interpretative and problem-solving skills
Be flexible and adaptable in a dynamic operational environment
Be able to relate well with colleagues and support staff
Be willing to travel within the Caribbean for field deployments and operational response activities and work in physically demanding field conditions
Be in possession of a valid driver’s permit or be willing to acquire one rapidly
Detailed application and full curriculum vitae should be sent to the Campus Registrar, c/o HR Division (Appointments Section), Main Administration Building, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, W.I. via e-mail: STA-HRApplications@uwi.edu. Two (2) referees (one of whom should be from your present organization) must be indicated. Application forms may be obtained at http://www.uwi.edu in the Faculty & Staff, Staff Vacancies section. Further particulars including remuneration package may also be obtained at the above address. In order to expedite the appointment procedures, applicants are advised to ask their referees to send their signed references under CONFIDENTIAL cover DIRECTLY to the Campus Registrar at the above address without waiting to be contacted by the University. Applications received after the deadline date will not be considered.
The University would like to thank all applicants for their interest. Please note, however, that only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged or contacted.
