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School of Earth and Environment
Potential research projects offered for Level 4 (Honours) and Level 5 (Masters)
students commencing in 2015
Geology, Geophysics, Mineral Geoscience, Petroleum Geoscience,
Computational Geoscience
The Projects outlined in this Handbook are NOT necessarily all of those available. Please feel free to talk to supervisors about designing projects around your interests
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Geoscience Projects
This document describes projects suitable for students undertaking a
24 pt research project as part of an Honours or Masters degree1.
Two key points to note:
1. We encourage you to consider what geoscience research problems
interest you and to choose a project topic that will motivate you to
do your best work throughout the year. The aim of the 24 pt
project is to provide an opportunity to learn how research works
and to begin developing your research skills. The 24-pt project is
also a pathway to higher degree by research (MSc, MPhil, PhD).
2. This document does not summarise all available projects and you
are welcome to speak with staff who supervise projects in the areas
of interest to you. We recommend that you have a general idea of
your supervisor and project by the end of this year. Do not leave
organising a project until the first teaching week of 2015!
Remember that many of the staff take leave through January.
Geoscience is a broad discipline that includes Geology, Geophysics2,
Geochemistry, Geobiology and Computation/Numerical Modeling. The
breadth of research activity in the School of Earth & Environment means
that students have opportunities to undertake diverse research projects.
Research may be focused on resolving questions related to fundamental
Earth processes and knowledge or have various levels of application to
specific resources including mineral deposits, petroleum and
groundwater.
You are welcome to contact staff directly (details are provided in the
booklet) to discuss projects where they are listed as the main contact. If
you are interested in projects in Mineral Geoscience but not sure what
kinds of projects, you may wish to contact Geoff Batt
([email protected]; ph. 6488 2686) who is Project Liaison for the
Centre for Exploration Targeting (CET). ___________________
1. If you are interested in a Masters degree in 2015 or 2016, some of the projects
outlined in this booklet can be extended into or set up as larger projects (e.g. 36 pt
projects). You are welcome to contact supervisors to discuss as required.
2. Geophysics is the study of Earth and its physical processes using the quantitative
methods of physics, math and computer science. Studies include the solid earth,
oceans, atmosphere, ionosphere and space. Geophysical data sets such as seismic
waves, EM waves including radar, gravity, magnetics etc. are used to image Earth
(inside and out). Solid earth applications range from plate tectonics, volcanism and
earthquake seismology, to exploration and monitoring of energy resources such as
hydrocarbons and geothermal, to mineral exploration, to groundwater, CO2 storage
and environmental processes.
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Project: 3D/4D Geophysical imaging of hydrocarbon and CO2 reservoirs
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected] 6488 7331,
Jeff Shragge, Rie Kamei, Nader Issa
Description: Geophysical data sets, especially seismic waves, can be used to image
(3D), and monitor in time-lapse mode (4D), subsurface reservoirs for
oil and gas resources, or injection and storage of anthropogenic CO2,
using techniques such as seismic, gravity and EM (electromagnetics)
including radar. These projects may require working with a
combination of rock and fluid physics, earth model building software,
computational geophysics data simulation, imaging and inversion, field
data acquisition and quantitative data analysis. Computer experience
and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to
vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.
Project: Analysis of seismic azimuthal anisotropy and tectonic stress
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331,
Jeff Shragge, Nader Issa
Description: There is evidence from various types of geophysical data of strong
azimuthal anisotropy (subsurface physical properties at a point vary as
a function of the compass direction in which they are measured)
possibly indicating anomalous horizontal tectonic stress gradients in
WA and other parts of the world. These data sets can be analysed to
determine information about the stress regime in these rocks, their
physical properties, and perhaps make predictions about the nature of
fluid flow, fault sealing, rock fractures, and earthquake risk. This
project may require working with various geophysical data sets
(active/passive seismic, well logs, borehole breakouts, ultrasonic core
measurements…) and geophysical modelling/analysis software.
Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the
potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD
studies.
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Project: 3D/4D environmental geophysics
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331,
Jeff Shragge, Nader Issa
Description: Geophysical data sets can be used to image (3D) and monitor (4D) near
surface soil and rocks using techniques such as seismic, gravity, GPR
(ground penetrating radar) and EM (electromagnetics), with application
to groundwater, contaminant flow, and baseline studies for CO2
sequestration projects. These projects may involve geophysical field
data surveying, working with rock and fluid physics, earth model
building software, computational geophysics data simulation, and
quantitative data analysis. Computer experience and some maths are
required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work
internships, and MSc or PhD studies.
Project: Computational simulation of geologic sedimentation processes
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331,
Jeffrey Shragge, Julien Bourget
Description: Reservoir rocks that contain important fluids (hydrocarbons, water,
CO2, geothermal) are created by complex geologic depositional
systems. This project involves the development of innovative models
and running supercomputing algorithms that will simulate the
sedimentation processes of marine coastal environments important for
understanding WA reservoir rocks. Computer programming experience
and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on
to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.
Project: High Resolution seismic imaging of seafloor properties for slope
stability and geo-hazard assessment
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331,
Julien Bourget, Beau Whitney
Description: Engineering studies of the seafloor are important to understand the
physical properties, slope stability and geo-hazards associated with
offshore pipeline and facilities construction. Currently this is done
using a collection of sparse geotechnical data samples and sonar scans,
and geologic interpretation. This project involves developing new
seismic techniques to obtain high-resolution images and material
property estimates for the seafloor and shallow mud layers to
complement the geo-engineering analysis. Computer experience and
some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to
vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.
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Project: Geophysical analysis of paleo tsunami deposits in WA
For majors
including:
Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331,
Beau Whitney, Jeff Shragge
Description: It has recently become evident that there may have been large
historical tsunamis generated offshore WA. The main evidence
includes so-called “tsunami boulders” and sediment deposits on barrier
islands along the NW coast. The source location and timing (every
~5,000 yrs?) of the tsunamis is not well understood, but could have a
huge impact on modern day geo-hazard assessments. This project
involves gathering data evidence for tsunamis and modelling potential
source locations and forces necessary to recreate the observed tsunami
data. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have
the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or
PhD studies.
Project Modelling Seismic Wavefields for Imaging Earth Structure
For majors
including Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474 and David
Lumley
Description: The increasing interest in subsurface gas reservoirs and CO2 geologic
storage has led to a rapid increase in 3D and time-lapse (4D)
computational seismic modelling of fluid/gas production and injection
processes. A central component is modelling 3D elastic-waves
propagation through to generate high-resolution maps of the changing
subsurface elastic / fluid properties. The computationally demanding
3D elastic-wave modelling is repeated thousands of times during each
investigation, and is an ideal candidate for parallelisation using GPU
processors. The general project goals are to incorporate GPU-based
coding in an existing modelling code kernel to demonstrate the speed-
up potential afforded by GPU parallelism, and to test the parallelised
code on a geologically feasible model using the GPU hardware on
IVEC@UWA’s Fornax cluster. A vacation scholarship is possible,
and the project can lead to MSc or PhD studies.
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Project Time-lapse Geophysical Monitoring of Fresh-Saltwater Interfaces
For Majors
including
Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474, David
Lumley and Matthias Leopold
Description: Salinisation of superficial freshwater water resources is a problem of
increasing importance throughout Western Australia. One approach to
characterising this problem is to examine temporal variations of a
fresh-saltwater interface through repeat geophysical monitoring
surveying (i.e. ground penetrating radar or GPR, and electrical
resistivity). These techniques are sensitive to changes in subsurface
salinity and can provide a measure diurnal-to-monthly fluctuation. The
goal of the study is to use the resulting geophysical images to calibrate
hydrogeological models, with particular emphasis on horizontal and
vertical hydraulic conductivity.
Project 3D Geophysical Mapping and Reconstruction of the Meckering
Fault
For Majors
including
Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474, Matthias
Leopold and David Lumley
Description: The Meckering Earthquake of 14 October 1968 was the most
significant seismicity in WA’s history in terms of damage done and
cultural upheaval. The magnitude (ML) of the earthquake was 6.9 on
the Richter scale with ~2m of heave along an arcuate rupture plane
nearly 40km in length. Roughly 1.5km of the surficial fault scarp is
currently visible and has been preserved from agricultural activities.
The main project goal is to use near-surface geophysics (resistivity,
ground penetrating radar, etc) to map out, image and reconstruct the
fault scarp in three dimensions to provide constraints on neotectonics
of the Southwest Seismic Zone of WA.
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Project: Field trails of an advanced fibre optics seismic wavefield sensor
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics
Supervisor: Nader Issa, [email protected], 6488 6872, David Lumley
Description: A new technology, called Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), has in
recent years emerged as a potential and promising seismic sensor for a
number of geophysical applications. DAS uses modern photonics
technologies and lasers to interrogate long lengths of buried optical-
fibre, measuring seismic waves at each meter along that fibre. This
project involves some field trials of our newly built instrument and data
analysis to explore the capabilities and future applications of this new
technology. Computer experience and some maths are required.
Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships,
and MSc or PhD studies.
Project: Imaging the earth with ambient noise fields
For majors
including: Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics
Supervisor: Nader Issa, [email protected], 6488 6872, David Lumley
Description: Usually we design data acquisition systems to enhance signal and
reduce noise.... but sometimes the noise in real data is very useful and
we wish there was more! A passive seismic measurement is done
without intentionally using a man-made source of seismic energy. It
records a variety of noise sources, including the ambient seismic noise
of such things as: nearby traffic, waves at the beach or even stormy
weather. This project involves finding ambient seismic noise in real
data and using it (alone) to create images of the subsurface. Such
innovative techniques are a promising new way to image the earth,
including to monitor subsurface reservoirs or the injection and storage
of CO2. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects
have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc
or PhD studies.
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Project 4D gravity monitoring of CO2 in the presence of geological
heterogeneity
For majors
including: Geophysics, Geoscience, Petroleum Geoscience, Physics, Computer
Science
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147, Jeff Shragge, David
Lumley
Description: Gravity data can be used to monitor reservoirs for the sequestration of
industrial CO2. Sensitivity to multi-year change is marginal however,
and relies on a strong understanding of basin geometry and properties.
Geological heterogeneity within the reservoir, especially porosity
variations, impact on the ability to detect and monitor CO2 plumes.
Geological heterogeneity is often ill-understood, and its influence on
monitoring potential is usually not known. This project seeks to better
understand this factor for an example in the South Perth Basin.
This project suits those with an interest in petroleum or environmental
applications of geophysics. Some computing experience and reasonable
maths ability are required. The scope of the project lends itself to
either BSc or MSc level research.
Project: Australo-Antarctic Geology and the East Antarctic Ice Sheet
For majors
including:
Any geoscience related degree
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147
Description: The vulnerability of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet (EAIS) to climate
change is a topic of much recent interest, with several studies showing
that it may be more vulnerable to change than is commonly supposed.
The EAIS is the biggest uncertainty in projections of future sea-level
rise. Geology provides crucial controls on the conditions of the ice
sheet bed (e.g. crystalline rock versus sedimentary rock) and its macro-
scale structure, dictated by major tectonic elements.
Antarctica’s hot new geophysical datasets from the US-UK-AUS
ICECAP program have revealed for the first time the geology of
Wilkes Land – the conjugate margin to the western 2/3rds of Australia.
Several projects are available that will utilise these brand new data to
reconstruct and understand subglacial geology, including key controls
on EAIS flow organisation.
These projects are best suited towards students with an academic focus
as the results are highly publishable and likely to be of high impact if
well executed. Some familiarity with geophysical data interpretation,
including gravity, magnetic and radar data, and a willingness to
understand cross-disciplinary concepts are essential.
10
Project: A methodology of very large-scale gravity inversion?
For majors
including:
Any geoscience related degree, physics, computer science
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147
Description: The density of the Earth's crust and mantle layers has a profound
impact on the planet's tectonic cycles with many follow on
implications, e.g. for resource exploration and geological hazards.
Gravity modelling has, to data struggled to cope with very large-
scale modelling due to model size and resolution limitations,
capturing model complexity, and working in spherical co-ordinate
systems.
Several projects are available to apply new technologies to regional to
continent-scale gravity inversion problems. Work will be completed
making full use of iVEC supercomputer infrastructure and will involve
testing new codes against existing approaches, assessing performance
and helping to further develop the approach.
This project suits those with an interest in geophysics. Software is
designed to be used by non-specialists, however, some computing
experience and reasonable maths ability are required. The scope of the
projects lends themselves to MSc level research.
Project: Basin Structure and mineralization in the Capricorn Orogen
For majors
including:
Any geoscience related degree
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147; Sandra Occhipinti,
Mark Lindsay
Description: The Proterozoic sedimentary basins of the Capricorn Orogen preserve
lareg potential for ore-deposit genesis, and yet relatively few
significant ore-bodies are known.
Several projects are available to apply interpretative mapping of
magnetic, gravity and remote sensing data to understand basin
architecture and its relationship with mineralization. These broad-scale
interpretations will, where possible, be ground truthed with drillcore
and/or field mapping.
This project suits those with an interest in mineral exploration,
geology, remote sensing or geophysics.
11
Project: A methodology of very large-scale gravity inversion?
For majors
including:
Any geoscience related degree, geophysics, physics, computer science
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147
Description: The density of the Earth's crust and mantle layers has a profound
impact on the planet's tectonic cycles with many follow on
implications, e.g. for resource exploration and geological hazards.
Gravity modelling has, to date struggled to cope with very large-scale
modelling due to model size and resolution limitations, capturing
model complexity, and working in spherical co-ordinate systems.
Several projects are available to apply new technologies to regional to
large-scale gravity inversion problems. Work will be completed
making full use of iVEC supercomputer infrastructure and will involve
testing new codes against existing approaches, assessing performance
and helping to further develop the approach.
This project suits those with an interest in geophysics. Software is
designed to be used by non-specialists, however, some computing
experience and reasonable maths ability are required. The scope of the
projects lends themselves to MSc level research.
Project: How the West was One…The Rodona-Totten Shear Zone
For majors
including:
Any geoscience related degree
Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected]; 6488 7147
Description: The reconfiguration of Mesoproterozoic Australia occurred between
ca. 1400 Ma and ca. 1300 Ma, through a complex series of plate
margin processes. The culmination of this was the collision of the
South and West Australian continents. Past and recent studies indicate
that this collision may have occurred along the Rodona Shear Zone,
which lies offshore east of Israelite Bay in WA.
This project involves the use of high-resolution aeromagnetic and
gravity data from Australia and Antarctica to understand shear-zone
structure and kinematics. This new map of the shear zone will be tied
in with new geochronological and isotopic data emerging from beneath
the Eucla Basin, from moraine sediments and from the Albany Fraser
Orogen.
12
Project: Geological mapping of Venus – Atalanta Planitia Quadrangle
For majors
including: Geology
Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198
Description: Our record of the early evolution of Earth is limited by erosion, burial,
tectonic dismemberment and periods of impact cratering. The Venusian
surface preserves a rare and pristine record of terrestrial planet
evolution. We aim to map in detail parts of the Atalanta Planitia
Quadrangle (V4) of the northern hemisphere. Our proposed area
contains vast areas of Venusian “tesserae” that is thought to represent
the oldest surviving Venusian landscapes, and which provides a rich
and detailed history of the evolution of the Venusian planetary surface.
This project will involve interpreting SAR data and using first-order
geological relationships to understand the kinematic evolution of the
ancient tessera terrains in this block. Students must have a good
understanding of structural geology and tectonics to 3rd year level. The
scope of the project is compatible with extension to Masters level.
Project: Instantaneous melts on Venus – Earth analogues
For majors
including: Geology
Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198,
Description: The Venusian surface, especially in the tesserae regions (the oldest
Venusian crust), is covered with areas of instantaneous melt which
flood the local geology. These flood areas are local, are not associated
with volcanic edifices, and seem to be melting in place. Whilst they
may be of roughly the same age, there is no evidence that they all
formed at the same time as the result of a single event. Rather, they
appear to be spontaneous localized melts, similar to those which occur
in high-grade metamorphic rocks on Earth. Granulite facies terrains
include numerous areas of various sizes comprising pegmatite from
instantaneous, localized melt during deformation. This project seeks to
map in detail the number and extent of pegmatite melts in a small area
of a granulite terrain, with a view to comparing melt processes from
deformation at deep crustal levels on Earth with processes of
instantaneous melt formation on Venus. Fieldwork will be conducted in
the Bremer Bay area in February 2013.
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Project: Neotectonics and strike-slip reactivation in offshore petroleum
basins of northern WA
For majors
including: Geology
Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198 Julien Bourget
Description: The northwest of WA hosts Australia’s largest recorded earthquakes
(ML 7.3, Meeberrie, 1941). Identification of modern surface offsets
(fault scarps) and drainage capture, together with recently acquired
earthquake focal mechanism data for 28 recent events, suggests that
modern geomorphology may yield evidence as to recent earthquake
activity throughout north-western WA. This project seeks to map
modern structural orientations and fault reactivation in offshore areas in
the Carnarvon and Browse Basins with a view to understanding the
pre-reactivation geometries and timing, and relating them to the
modern tectonic setting. Two projects are available, and the scope is
compatible for continuation to Masters level.
Project: Seafloor bathymetry in the western Timor Sea as evidence of
modern tectonic processes
For majors
including: Geology
Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198, Julien Bourget
Description: High resolution Seabeam seafloor bathymetric data acquired by an
international petroleum company yields details of seafloor topography
related to modern collisional deformation. Detailed mapping of an area
in the western Timor Sea will yield evidence as to surface processes,
sedimentation rates, fluid flux and structural controls on seafloor
deformation. Based on Seabeam image interpretations, likely with
some high-resolution seismic data across key transects, these
interpretations can be compiled with deformation known from seismic
data and onshore data from exposures on Timor Island, to further
decipher the processes and timing of the Australia/Eurasia collision in
the Timor Sea area. Up to 2 projects are available, and are both
compatible with extension to Masters level.
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Project: External controls on the architecture and evolution of Paleocene -
Eocene carbonate platforms, NW Bonaparte and Browse basins: a
seismic stratigraphic approach
For majors
including:
Geology
Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679
Description: This research project aims to unravel the distribution, architecture, an
growth history of isolated carbonate platforms that developed at the
boundary between the Browse and Bonaparte basins during the
Paleocene and Eocene. Carbonate sedimentation repeatedly alternated
with periods of platform exposure and siliciclastic shelf-margin
sedimentation, and the external controls at the origin of these sequences
will be investigated. The project will be based on 2D and 3D seismic
data complemented by well wireline data. Seismic stratigraphy and 3D
attribute analysis will be conducted and will allow identifying stratal
geometries, stratigraphic surfaces, and high-resolution imaging of
depositional geometries. Structural mapping and analysis will be
conducted in order to evaluate the potential impact of basement faults
on carbonate platforms emplacement/geometries.
This Level 4 project can be complemented by additional datasets and
extended as a Level 5 research project.
Project: 3D seismic stratigraphy – Plio-Quaternary analogues for carbonate
reservoirs
For majors
including:
Geology
Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679
Description: This research project will use a newly acquired (2012) 3D seismic
survey to investigate the seismic stratigraphic evolution of a Plio-
Quaternary analogue for carbonate reservoirs forming in intra-shelf
basinal settings (i.e., numerous oil and gas fields from the Middle East
of Mesozoic age).
You will learn state-of-the-art interpretation techniques of 3D seismic
data (volume interpretation, horizon cube generation, attribute analysis)
to build a concept model of stratigraphic evolution of the basin during
the last 4 million years. The project will also focus on the identification
and mapping of potential reservoir geobodies (carbonate build-ups,
platforms, and tidal channels) to populate a reservoir database. The
identification of changes in carbonate growth patterns will also provide
new insights on the sea-level and climate changes that occurred in
northern Australia in the Pliocene and Quaternary. This valuable
information on the sensitivity of reef systems to environmental
modifications will help understanding the future evolution of present-
day barrier reefs in Australia and worldwide.
15
Project: Unravelling tectonic and eustatic controls on shelf-margin and
slope sedimentation in the northern Bonaparte Basin
For majors
including:
Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Earth Science
Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679, Myra Keep
Description: The Bonaparte Basin (NW Shelf of Australia, Timor Sea) constitutes a
long-lived sedimentary basin supporting important oil and gas
exploration and production. The basin forms a very wide continental
shelf where sedimentation consisted of silliciclastic supply mixed with
outer shelf carbonates. The aim of this project is to integrate very-high
resolution two-dimensional and three-dimensional seimic datasets,
wireline and shallow cores, in order to investigate the depositional
history and architetcure of Pleistocene shelf-margin deltaic sediments
on the northern edge of the basin (Sunrise Field). The main aims are (1)
to determine the relative importance of local tectonics and global sea-
level fluctuations on shelf-margin depocentres and geometries; (2) to
establish a correlation between shelf-margin and basin sedimentation
during this time span and evaluate the nature of turbidite system
architecture and its recent evolution.
This project will be part of a wider research proposal involving
academic and industry partners, and could be continued in the form a
longer (Msc) project.
Students should have completed EART3344 Basin Analysis.
16
Project: Controls on the stratigraphic architecture and evolution of
carbonate slope systems of the North West Shelf: analogue study
for oil & gas reservoirs
For majors
including:
Geology
Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679
Description: This research project aims to unravel the distribution, architecture, and
growth history of the widespread carbonate slope deposits (turbidites
and mass-transport deposits) that developed along the margins of the
North West Shelf during the Cenozoic. Carbonate margins and slopes
represent an important component of the stratigraphic fill of
sedimentary basins and an important target for oil and gas exploration.
The emphasis on terrigeneous slope and basin deposits during the last
two decades was not accompanied by a similar interest for their
carbonate counterparts, which have comparatively received little
attention. The recent focus of hydrocarbon exploration activities in
carbonate slope and basin sequences worldwide has highlighted their
economic potential and a need for increasing data collection in
analogue settings in order to revise conceptual models that predict
slope architecture, reservoir quality, and seal development.
The extensive amount of open-file 2D/3D seismic and well data
available along the North West Shelf makes it a unique setting for
investigating carbonate margin and slope architecture, geomorphology
and prospectivity. This project will use a regional compilation of
seismic and well data to investigate the stratigraphic evolution of the
Cenozoic sequences of the North West Shelf. The focus of the project
can be adjusted to your skills / motivation and more focused on either
2D/3D seismic stratigraphy or side wall core data analysis. However
integration of various types of datasets (well biostratigraphy, well log
and seismic data) will be a key component to the project.
Project: Shallow-marine seismic stratigraphy and reservoir architecture in
the offshore Taranaki Basin (New-Zealand)
For majors
including:
Geology
Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679
Description: The Taranaki Basin is a hydrocarbon-bearing sedimentary basin
containing Cretaceous to Pliocene reservoir intervals in continental,
shallow-marine and deep-marine depositional settings. This project will
focus on an Eocene shallow-marine deposit located off the northern
Taranaik coast. Three-dimensional seismic data and well data will be
used to create a high-resolution sequence stratigraphic framework of
the field area. Attribute analysis techniques will help characterizing
depositional architecture, identify potential reservoir target(s) and
trap(s).
17
Project: Depositional history and petroleum reservoir characterisation,
North West Shelf (may be company sponsored)
For majors
including: Geology, Petroleum Geoscience
Supervisor: Annette George, [email protected], 6488 1923
Description: A wide variety of petroleum reservoirs are encountered in the offshore
basins of the North West Shelf and various onshore basins in WA.
Petroleum-focused projects can be undertaken in shallow or deep
marine depositional systems to reconstruct depositional and tectonic
history of specific basins or through specific stratigraphic units
(notably reservoirs). These projects typically involve integration of
core work (sedimentology, facies analysis ± petrography ±
biostratigraphy) with seismic and/or wire line log data in a sequence-
stratigraphic framework. There are specific projects focusing on
seismic sequence-stratigraphic interpretation of basin-margin history
and characterisation of reservoir intervals. These projects are also
suitable for 36-42 pt Masters projects.
Project: Characterisation of siliciclastic- or carbonate-dominated reservoirs
associated with conventional and unconventional resources in
onshore WA Basins (e.g. Canning Basin, Perth Basin; may be
company sponsored)
For majors
including: Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Annette George, [email protected], 6488 1923
Description: Understanding reservoir quality is a fundamental aspect of petroleum
system analysis. The onshore basins of WA have been the sites of
earliest petroleum exploration in WA, and despite the dominance of
the NWS as the major petroleum producer, the onshore basins have
had some exciting oil discoveries in the last few years (e.g. Cliff Head,
Perth Basin, and Ungani in the Canning Basin). Projects will focus on
conventional and unconventional reservoir development using core to
petrographic-scale description and interpretation to establish
depositional setting/environments and major controls on reservoir
quality (i.e. principally distribution of porosity and permeability).
Some of these projects include Hylogger® analysis and portable XRF
analysis of core to obtain geochemical data for characterising facies
and diagenetic effects. Some projects could involve application of
higher level microscopic techniques (scanning electron, cathode
luminescence).
18
Project: Geochemical signatures in stratigraphic successions
For majors
including:
Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Annette George, [email protected], 6488 1923
Description: Interpretation of changes in geochemical composition through
stratigraphic successions is increasingly used to understand significant
environmental changes in the Earth System in deep time including
times of major biotic crisis. In addition, using inorganic geochemical
data to correlate stratigraphic successions (‘chemostratigraphy’) is also
valuable and increasingly used in the industry alongside other methods
to construct better subsurface models. Projects are available that would
typically integrate petrography (conventional ± cathode luminescence
microscopy) and relevant geochemical analyses (e.g. elemental
composition, stable isotopes) to address specific problems of past
environmental change and/or basin history. Sample suites may be
linked to core logging depending on area for additional
sedimentological skill development.
Project: Structural control, hydrothermal alteration and iron ore
mineralogy of the Koodaideri Fe deposit, Hamersley province,
Western Australia
For majors
including: Economic Geology
Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected];
(Rio Tinto project geologist)
Description: This project will be the first attempt to document the stratigraphy,
mineralogy (silicates and oxides) of BIF at the Koodaideri BIF-hosted
Fe deposit in the Hamersley province, Western Australia. Detailed
diamond core logging (both petrographically and texturally) and
sampling from diamond core and outcrops will be undertaken under
the supervision of RT geologists. At the laboratory transmitted and
reflected light microscopy as well as microprobe and laser ICP-MS
analyses of key iron oxide minerals will be used to constrain the
different iron oxide species and ore types but also to establish the iron
ore paragenesis in the context of the stratigraphic and structural
framework.
19
Project: Mineralogy, texture and mineral chemistry of the super-rich
Oroya shoot at the Golden Mile, Kalgoorlie: constraints on gold-
telluride rich ore fluids and precipitation processes.
For majors
including: Economic Geology
Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected],
David Nelson (KCGM)
Description: This project will constrain the mineralogy, textures and mineral
chemistry of samples from the famous super-rich Oroya shoot within
the Golden Mile at Kalgoorlie. Techniques employed will be
petrography, mineral chemistry including SEM and EMP as well as in
situ laser ICP-MS analyses. The outcome of the study will constrain
the mineralogy, ore fluid chemistry and precipitation mechanism of the
Oroya shoot. This data will allow a detailed comparison of the Oroya
style mineralogy and ore fluids to the widespread Fimiston-style
mineralization at the Golden Mile.
Project: Boron isotopes and mineral chemistry of tourmalines at the
Golden Mile: constraints on the source of boron
For majors
including: Economic Geology
Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected],
David Nelson (KCGM)
Description: This project will use transmitted light microscopy and microchemistry
of tourmalines to constrain the chemistry of tourmalines. In addition,
boron isotopes of selected tourmalines will be used to constrain the
source of boron in the Fimiston lodes at the Golden Mile. This data set
will be compared to the boron isotope signatures of tourmaline in other
epi- to hypozonal orogenic gold systems in the Yilgarn craton and
worldwide.
Project: Hydrothermal alteration mineralogy, texture and zoning at the Mt
Percy gold deposit (Union Club Pit), Golden Mile, Western
Australia
For majors
including: Economic Geology
Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected],
David Nelson (KCGM)
Description: Hydrothermal alteration mineralogy and zonation of the orogenic
mesozonal Mt Percy deposit (Union Club Pit) at the Golden Mile will
be constrained by detailed petrography, mineral chemistry and whole
rock, trace element and REE geochemistry. This new data will be used
to establish the hydrothermal footprint and P-T-X conditions of gold
mineralization at this deposit; in addition mineralogical and
geochemical vectors towards gold mineralization will be established.
20
Project: Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
For majors
including:
Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Tony Kemp, [email protected], 6488 7846
Description: A range of projects are available in the general fields of igneous and
metamorphic petrology. Topics include, and are not limited to - (1)
petrology and evolution of Archaean granulites, (2) petrology and
geochemistry of Proterozoic dolerite dyke swarms, (3) partial melting
processes in migmatites from field and geochemical studies, (4)
petrogenesis of Paleoproterozoic mafic-ultramafic intrusions, and (5)
tin and rare metal mineralization in pegmatites. All projects would
involve petrography (optical and secondary electron microscopy) and
mineral chemistry (electron microprobe, possibly laser ablation
ICPMS), with scope for whole rock geochemistry (major and trace
elements) and, potentially, U-Pb isotope geochronology (zircon,
monazite). A small fieldwork component may be included. Projects
can be tailored to suit individual interests, and may be undertaken over
one or two years.
Project: Isotopic Geochronology and Tectonics
For majors
including: Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686
Description: Understanding of chemical and isotopic behaviour within mineral
structures provides a capability to identify geological and thermal
histories arising from a wide range of processes, ranging from
magmatic crystallization to low-temperature weathering. The
resolution of 4D Earth history and dynamic processes through such
geo/thermochronometric records has important applications in many
areas of geosciences, including provenance studies, structural geology,
landscape evolution, petroleum and ore system genesis, and
paleoclimate-tectonic linkages. A range of projects are possible in both
fundamental and applied aspects of this field, jointly supervised by
SEE staff and researchers from CSIRO and other areas of the John de
Laeter Research Centre of Mass Spectrometry, as appropriate. Students
undertaking economically focused projects are encouraged to apply for
a UWA Geoscience Foundation scholarship.
21
Project: Understanding metal contamination of sediments in the Swan-
Canning estuary
For majors
including:
Environmental Science, Geology, Geochemistry, Environmental
Geoscience, Soil Science, Physical Geography
Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500
Description: Potentially toxic elements such as some trace metals may be naturally
present in estuarine sediments, or may originate from external sources
such as stormwater drains, marinas, or riparian wetlands drying and
acidifying as a result of climate variability. In this project we will
sample wetland and estuarine sediments to measure the
concentrations and mode-of-occurrence of relevant trace elements
and associated sediment properties (sulfides, organic matter, clays,
etc.). The data will be used to deduce the fate and likely risk of metal
contamination.
Project: Improved thermal event discrimination in zircon (U-Th)/He
thermochronology
For majors
including: Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686, Brent McInnes (Curtin)
Noreen Evans (CSIRO)
Description: Age distributions in mixed-source samples (sediments,
xenolithic/crystic material etc) are a potentially important source of
information on thermal processes, sediment provenance, tectonic uplift
and crustal exhumation, and other fundamental aspects of geological
history. It has recently been recognized, however, that accumulated
radiation damage alters the rate of isotopic diffusion through crystal
lattices, complicating the identification of significant signals in detrital
datasets.
This project will consist of characterizing the relationship between (U-
Th)/He ages and metamictization in zircon crystals from mixed source
samples. Understanding this systematic behaviour has implications for
studies ongoing within the CSIRO (U-Th)/The facility at the John de
Laeter Centre for Mass Spectrometry, in which helium age
distributions are being developed as a tool for diamond, gold, and
petroleum exploration.
No fieldwork would be required, as suitable samples have already been
collected and identified via an industry-supported MERIWA project.
The project will involve microprobe, scanning electron microscope,
and micro CT analysis to characterize zircon grains from varied
sources. Selected material would then be prepared for high precision
(U-Th)/He and helium diffusion experiments.
Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical
techniques to be applied
22
Project: Geochemical evolution of dredge spoils
For majors
including:
Environmental Science, Geology, Geochemistry, Environmental
Geoscience, Soil Science, Physical Geography
Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500
Description: The disposal of estuarine or marine dredge material has become very
topical with the proposed development of the Abbot Point on the
Great Barrier Reef. The Peel-Harvey estuary in WA has examples of
both land-based and submarine disposal of dredged sediments. Some
consequences are known, but incompletely understood, such as the
oxidation of sedimentary sulfides in land-disposed sediment, with
consequent acidification and release of metals. The evolution of
dredge spoil disposed within the estuary is very poorly understood.
The project will involve sampling in one of these scenarios and
assessing the geochemical evolution and potential for export of
contaminants.
Project: Structural Evolution of the AUS-PAC Plate Boundary in Southern
New Zealand
For majors
including: Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686, Brent McInnes (Curtin)
Noreen Evans (CSIRO)
Description: The relative tectonic simplicity of the obliquely convergent boundary
between the Australian and Pacific Plates through southern New
Zealand has long seen the region held up as a natural laboratory
through which to develop understanding of fundamental orogenic
processes. Although deformation in this region is today focused along
the Alpine Fault zone to the west of the orogen, the extent of Pliocene-
Recent convergence and exhumation has resulted in a low preservation
potential for material that directly experienced the early development of
the system, leaving its structural evolution incompletely understood.
Pilot investigations have recently shown Thermochronological
constraint to have the potential to resolve elements of this ambiguous
history.
This project will use (U-Th)/He thermochronometry of zircon and
apatite to characterize the development and abandonment of fault
structures during Miocene evolution of the plate boundary through
southern New Zealand from a broad domain of transpressional
structures to a coherent, unified fault system – the fore-runner of the
modern Alpine Fault.
No fieldwork would be required, as samples have already been
collected.
The project will involve petrographic and microprobe analysis to
characterize samples. Zircon, apatite, and potentially other accessory
phases will be selected and prepared for high precision geochemical
and isotopic analysis, including thermochronometry.
Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical
techniques to be applied
23
Project: What are the forms of trace elements in sulfidic estuarine
sediments? Can we use trace elements as geochemical tracers in
these systems?
For majors
including:
Geology (environmental), Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience,
Land & Water Management
Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500
Description: Trace elements represent potential contaminants in aquatic sediments,
but may also be useful in determining the origin of sulfidic minerals in
these systems. You would collect samples of monosulfide-rich
sediments from the Peel-Harvey Estuary System or use archived
samples. Using these sediments, you would measure the
concentrations of different forms of trace elements using a range of
chemical and spectroscopic analytical techniques. Normalised trace
element concentrations would be related to geographical spatial
distribution of the sediments.
Project: What can we learn from geochemical soil surveys?
For majors
including:
Geology (environmental), Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience,
Environmental Science
Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500
Description: A number of continental-scale soil geochemical datasets are available
(e.g., the National Geochemical Survey of Australia, the FOREGS
EuroGeoSurveys Geochemical Baseline Database, and the North
American ‘Geochemical Landscapes’ project). While these survey
have yielded several published studies, the large amount of data
collected has the potential to yield significant further findings. This
desktop-based project would use robust statistical and multivariate
analyses to evaluate interesting and relevant hypotheses about soil and
regolith geochemistry based on these large datasets.
24
Project: The quantification of hydrothermal mineralising systems
For majors
including: All Geoscience topics
Supervisor: Alison Ord, [email protected], 6488 2642, Mark Munro, Steve
Micklethwaite
Description: This research program is designed as a training project for students
and young researchers, with special focus on the analysis of complex
geological systems through a combination of structure quantification
and modelling.
The non-linearity of many geological systems has been increasingly
recognized during the past decades. Processes within such systems act
far away from equilibrium and lead to complex structures. A rigorous
theoretical and observational foundation for these processes is crucial
for understanding the short-term as well as long-term behaviour of our
geological environment that provides the basis for our social, cultural
and economic life.
Specific projects will focus on mineralisation under hydrothermal
conditions – a process that combines fundamental physical and
chemical procedures in crystalline matter with fluid flow under
various conditions, leading e.g. to economically important mineral
deposits and geothermal fields, as well as affecting the long- and
short-term response of the lithosphere to stresses, e.g. expressed in the
formation of mountain belts and in earthquakes.
The projects will be based on a combination of field-related recording
of structures with subsequent quantification and application of
numerical modelling. This allows (i) to investigate in detail the effects
of various physical and chemical parameters on hydrothermally driven
mineralisation, (ii) to compare modelled structures with natural ones
and, consequently, (iii) to calibrate and refine the numerical models,
which again allows more detailed investigations.
Resources are available in 2014 for collaborative research in Germany
through a Go8/DAAD project. The project may lead to MSc or PhD
studies.
25
Project: Empirical Analysis of False Positives in Geophysics and
Geochemical Exploration – A ‘Live’ Case Study of Nickel-Copper
Exploration in the Fraser Range Region, WA
For majors
including:
Any Geoscience background (Geology, Geochemistry, Geophysics,
GIS or Economic Geology), or Geoscience/Commerce double degree
Supervisor: Allan Trench (CET) [email protected]; 0437 092 466
John Sykes (CET) [email protected],
Mike Dentith [email protected]
Description: Studies that examine the probabilities of success in mineral exploration
are still in their infancy in terms of influencing exploration decision-
making across the broader minerals sector. Very few data-points are
available as to the number and nature of exploration targets that are
drill-tested – the number of targets that then progress to follow-up
drilling – and conversely the number of targets that are considered not
worthy of further follow-up activity due to initially negative
exploration outcomes.
This study will look at the current exploration efforts of around 20
listed exploration companies in the Fraser Range region of WA.
Heightened exploration activity has followed the 2012 world-scale
discovery of the Nova-Bollinger nickel-copper deposits in the area by
Sirius Resources (SIR). The project will involve examining the
exploration strategies of these companies, estimating the number of
targets identified and tested in the period 2012-2014 and assessing the
success rates for targets to progress beyond initial exploration based
upon the source of anomalism (e.g. whether electromagnetics,
magnetics, geochemistry, geology/structural targeting etc.).
Empirical results will be placed into context using a False
Positive/True Positive exploration framework. The study is likely to be
high-profile given the extreme exploration interest in the region for
new nickel-copper sulphide discoveries.
Project: Can rare earth element (REE) concentrations in vegetation
explain enrichment of rare earth elements in some surface soils?
For majors
including:
Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience, Land & Water
Management, Soil Science
Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500
Description: Trace elements represent potential contaminants in aquatic sediments,
The biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in terrestrial
ecosystems is a surprisingly poorly-researched topic. You would
sample vegetation growing on regolith profiles that are geochemically
well-characterised. Plant tissues would be analysed for REE
concentrations, and mass balances calculated to assess the significance
of plant uptake on REE cycling in these systems. It will likely be
necessary to measure other REE pools (such as regolith pore water) to
complete the mass balance.
See also: Du, X., Rate, A.W. and Gee, M. 2011. Mineralogical
Magazine 75, 784.
26
Project: Magnetic Interpretation of Basement Structure of the Irwin
Terrace, northern Perth Basin
For majors
including:
Suitable for M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience degree including EART3353 Geological Mapping and
GEOS4412 Petroleum Systems
Supervisor: Mike Dentith, [email protected], 6488 2676, Annette
George
Description: New government aeromagnetic data from the northern Perth Basin
shows basement structure in the tectonically significant, but poorly
exposed, region where the Urella Fault joints the basin-bounding
Darling Fault. Existing tectonic models involving a major
accommodation zone in this area can be tested using the new data. The
Irwin Terrace is a major tectonic element of the northern Perth Basin
and exposes Permian stratigraphic units that form important
conventional and unconventional reservoirs in the basin.
The research will be based primarily on aeromagnetic data, which will
be interpreted in association with magnetic property data (collected on
a short field trip) and the limited seismic reflection data from the area.
Project: Radiometric Responses of Mineral Deposits: Are Alteration-Zone
Responses Actually Due to Changes in Geochemistry?
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience degree including EART3353 Geological Mapping and
GEOS4411 Mineralising Systems
Supervisor: Mike Dentith, [email protected], 6488 2676
Description: Several common types of mineral deposits are associated with
alteration haloes where the concentration of the three radioelements
(K, U, Th) is known to vary. Examples include VMS, epithermal
precious metal and porphyry-style deposits. Some important kinds of
host rocks for diamonds and REE are also anomalous with respect to
radioelement content, notably carbonatites and kimberlites.
An initial assessment of the extensive database of geochemical data
suggests that measured changes in radioelement concentrations are
often too small to be detected by radiometric surveys. Further data
needs to be compiled and modelling of radiometric responses
undertaken to investigate whether, for example, responses are being
significantly affected by supergene enrichment, density variations or
topography.
There is no significant database of the radiometric responses from
alteration haloes or mineralisation. A literature search is needed to
address this problem, with the dimensions of these anomalies
compared with common survey configurations, allowing for the effects
of ‘system footprints’, to determine the probability of detection of
these responses during reconnaissance exploration.
This project is laboratory based and involves data compilation and
geophysical data modelling in a geological context.
27
Project: Interpreting Magnetic Data from Sedimentary Basins:
Recognising Responses from Evaporites
For majors
including:
Suitable for M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience degree including EART3353 Geological Mapping, EART
3344 Basin Analysis and GEOS4412 Petroleum Systems
Supervisor: Mike Dentith, [email protected], 6488 2676, Annette
George
Description: Recently compiled aeromagnetic data from the Canning Basin show
responses which, based on their geometry, are possibly related to salt
diapirs. Although rarely reported, the ‘textbook’ magnetic response of
salt is a negative anomaly, however these responses are mostly positive
anomalies.
Core from two drillholes from the study area is available on which to
make magnetic property measurements. Limited seismic data is also
available. The research project comprises an integrated interpretation
of the available data, including qualitative and quantitative
interpretation of the magnetic data.
Project: Magnetic Properties of Komatiites
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience degree including EART3353 Geological Mapping and
GEOS4411 Mineralising Systems
Supervisor: Mike Dentith, [email protected], 6488 2676, Marco
Fiorentini
Description: The magnetic anomalies caused by komatiites are important indicators
of prospectivity for NiS in greenstone belts. The magnetism of these
rocks is, however, poorly understood. The magnetism is due to both
primary magnetic minerals and the creation and/or destruction of
magnetic minerals during subsequent metamorphism and
alteration. For example, serpentinisation is expected to create
magnetic minerals and talc-carbonate alteration to destroy magnetic
minerals. Limited existing data suggest significant changes in rock
magnetism within individual komatiite flows.
The proposed project seeks to understand the magnetism of komatiites
in the context of both their primary zonation and also secondary
alteration processes. It is expected to that this work will be based on
cores from the Kambalda and Mt Keith areas and the project will
combine petrological and geochemical and petrophysical studies. A
few days fieldwork, at mine sites, will be required.
28
Project: Petrology and geochemistry of majorite-bearing peridotite as a
source of Barberton-type komatiite volcanism
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience
Supervisor: Marco Fiorentini, [email protected], 6488 3465, Laure
Martin
Description: Komatiites are ultrabasic magmas that formed through high degrees of
partial melting of the mantle and therefore provide the most reliable
information on bulk mantle compositions. Komatiites have been
subdivided into two main groups: Barberton-type komatiites are Al-
depleted and have trace element patterns that are undepleted in the
most incompatible elements, whereas Munro-type komatiites are Al-
undepleted and show incompatible-element-depleted trace element
patterns. It is also notable that Barberton-type komatiites are generally
depleted in platinum-group element (PGE) contents in relation to
Munro-type komatiites.
The compositional differences between Barberton- and Munro-type
komatiites reflect the conditions under which the melts separated from
their plume sources. Barberton-type komatiites formed by 30% batch
melting of a mantle source enriched or slightly depleted in Ca–Al at a
depth exceeding 300km, and are depleted in Al owing to majorite
garnet retention in the source, whereas Munro-type komatiites formed
by 50% fractional melting of a Ca–Al-depleted mantle source at a
shallower depth. However, the genesis of komatiite magmatism is still
highly debated as very few reliable mantle sources have been
identified.
The aim of this study is to determine the petrological and geochemical
features of a series of majorite-bearing peridotites from the Otroy
Complex in western Norway. These peridotites are thought to represent
the mantle restite of Archean Barberton-type komatiite volcanism.
Hence, through this study it will be possible to investigate further the
genesis of komatiite volcanism and address the question whether
majorite garnet plays a role in PGE fractionation and concentration
during magmatic processes.
Methods: This research will build on existing material that was
collected during previous studies combining:
Petrology using optic and electronic microscopic methods.
Microprobe analysis (depending on results)
Laser Ablation ICPMS (depending on results)
Ion probe (depending on results)
Requirements: This project does not include a fieldwork component
and requires a high quality student comfortable with detailed analytical
work. A successful outcome has the potential to result in a publication.
29
Project: How to make the invisible visible: Exploring the use of isotopic
labeling for the visualization of fluid-rock interaction in
experimental systems
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience
Supervisor: Marco Fiorentini, [email protected], 6488 3465, Matt
Kilburn, Laure Martin
Description: The complex nature of fluid-mineral interactions is mostly obscured by
the broader homogeneity of mineral chemistry – a Fe sulphide
deposited during one geological event is indistinguishable from the
nominal composition of a Fe-sulphide deposited in a completely
different event. Nevertheless, the succession of chemical changes
recorded at the nanoscale in geological materials promises to offer
significant advances in our understanding of geological processes and
their relative timescales.
This study aims at developing a method using stable isotope labels in
well-constrained experimental systems together with ultra-high
resolution imaging mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) to better
understand fluid flow, fluid-mineral interactions, and the effects of
micro-structural deformation on mineral chemistry. This study is part
of larger research initiative in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Core
to Crust Fluid Systems.
Project: Microbialte Ecohydrology and Sedimentology
For majors
including:
Hydrogeology, Geology, Geography, Environmental Science
Supervisor: Ryan Vogwill [email protected], 6488 2680
Description: South West Western Australia contains a large number of microbialte
bearing wetlands which are under threat from climate change,
anthropogenic water use and landuse change. Microbialites
(stromatolites, thrombolites and tufas) are all formed by the presence
of microbial communities which form CaCO3 deposits. Multiple
project opportunities exist at multiple sites to assess microbialite
formation, microbialite sedimentology, microbialite evotuion, wetland
surface and groundwater interaction, links between microbial
assemblage and water quality to contribute towards developing
environmental water requirements.
30
Project: Geochronological study of the Ammassalik Intrusive Complex and
implication for geodynamic emplacement
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience
Supervisor: Nicolas Thebaud, [email protected], 6488 7139, Marco
Fiorentini, Jochen Kolb
Description: The Palaeoproterozoic Nagssugtoqidian Orogen extends over 250 km
along the east coast of Greenland around the settlement of Tasiilaq and
includes Archaean rocks from the adjoining Rae Craton to the north
and the North Atlantic Craton to the south, and Palaeoproterozoic
rocks (Kolb 2013). It is a complex geological province affected by a
complex magmatic and structural history prone to the development of
hydrothermal and magmatic mineralisation(s). Within the orogen, three
20km long and 10–15km wide ovoid mafic to intermediate intrusions
aligned in a SE-trend constitute the Ammassalik Intrusive Complex
(AIC). The intrusions consist of interlayered diorite, granodiorite,
metagabbro and anorthositic rock containing lenses of ultramafic and
mafic rocks (Wright et al., 1973; Andersen et al., 1989). They are
crosscut by various generations of pegmatitic anorthosite dykes
(Wright et al., 1973). The AIC is dated at 1886 ± 2 Ma by bulk zircon
analysis (Hansen and Kalsbeek, 1989) and at 1881 ± 10 Ma (Nutman
et al., 2008, SHRIMP Pb-Pb) in one locality. Furthermore, isotopic
data indicate a contribution from older material, suggesting the mixing
of juvenile magma with Archaean crustal material during the genesis
of the AIC (Kalsbeek et al., 1993). However, the overall timing and
geodynamic framework of emplacement of the Ammassalik Intrusive
Complex remain poorly constrained. Using key samples collected over
the AIC, the aim of this project is to further constrain the geodynamic
emplacement of the AIC through a detail geochronological study of
key samples recently collected in the AIC. This study is part of larger
research initiative in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Core to Crust
Fluid Systems.
Methods: This research will build on existing material that was
collected during previous studies combining:
Petrology using optic and electronic microscopic methods.
Geochronology (SHRIMP U-Pb analysis)
Microprobe analysis (depending on results)
Laser Ablation ICPMS (depending on results)
Requirements: This project does no include a fieldwork component
and requires a high quality student comfortable with detailed analytical
work. A successful outcome has the potential to result in a publication.
31
Project: Martian impact craters and their potential for melt and ore
deposit genesis
For majors
including:
Suitable for Hons (4th yr) or M.Sc (5th yr) research project
Geoscience
Supervisor: Marco Fiorentini, [email protected], 64883465,
Steve Mickelthwaite, Raphael Baumgartner, David Baratoux
Description: Observations on the size, structure and morphology of impact craters
on the planetary bodies of the inner solar system provide invaluable
information about their crustal composition, structure and physical
properties. The impact process itself is usually characterised by the
formation of impact melt due to the release of thermal energy and
instantaneous melting of the target rocks. Small impacts (crater
diameter <25 km) usually form low amounts of impact melt, most of
which occurs as small bodies of glass in (polymict) breccias within and
outside the crater. Large impact structures, on the other hand, usually
host large amounts of impact melts deposited as melt layers at the
crater floors.
The Sudbury Igneous Complex (SIC), Canada, which represents a
thick differentiated mafic- to ultramafic melt layer, represents the best
example of an impact related melt sheet on Earth. Intriguingly, the SIC
also hosts the world’s largest Ni reserves in the form of basal horizons
of polymetallic (Ni-Cu-PGE) sulphide mineralisation. Their genesis is
recognised to be directly linked to cooling and closed system magmatic
differentiation of the melt body. The Martian crust is largely
dominated by impact craters, which range in diameter from <1 km to
the enormous dimension (~2200 km diameter) of the Hellas Planitia
impact structure, suggesting the potential presence of large amounts of
impact melt in individual impact structures. The primary aim of this
project is to investigate whether individual Martian impact crater host
large amounts of differentiated and potentially mineralised (i.e. Ni-Cu-
PGE sulphides) impact melt layers.
Methodology
Martian impact crater will be investigated for impact melt sheets based
on two individual approaches:
Various high-resolution imagery (e.g. CTX, HIRISE, HRSC,
MOC; up to 0.25 m/pixel) and global topography (e.g. MOLA,
HRSC; up to 50 m/pixel) datasets will be used to map
individual Martian impact craters for the presence of large
layers of impact melt sheets.
Numerous studies have shown that impact crater diameter scale with
impact melt volume. State of the art calculation/modelling techniques
about impact melt generation will be used to calculate potential melt
volumes present in individual crater on Mars.
32
Project: High-Precision Uranium-Lead Geochronology applied to Igneous
Processes and Tectonics
For majors
including:
Geology, Geochemistry
Supervisor: Steve Denyszyn, [email protected], 6488 7329
Description: The use of thermal-ionisation mass spectrometry to determine the
isotopic composition of uranium and lead in minerals such as zircon
and baddeleyite can provide high-precision ages for igneous events.
This enables the determination of the timing, rate, and correlation of all
sorts of geological processes, such as magma chamber development,
ore-forming events, tectonic activity from the local to continental
scales, or global biotic events such as mass extinctions.
A variety of projects are available that will use this methodology,
which involves careful laboratory practice, in combination with
petrography and geochemistry to answer important questions in these
fields using rocks already collected (so work can begin right away).
Most projects involve the study of mafic intrusive rocks and the timing
of their emplacement, with implications for ore-deposit genesis, and
the reconstruction of past climate and plate motion. If other rock types
interest you, there are also projects available to study granites and their
mode of emplacement, and metamorphic rocks to determine the timing
of formation and metamorphism.
Project: Determining Au prospectivity in the East Kimberley using
machine learning procedures
For majors
including:
Geology, Geophysics, Computer Science
Supervisor: Sandra Occhipinti, [email protected], 6488 8766, Mark
Lindsay, Vaclav Metelka, Eun-Jun Holden
Description: The Olympio Formation in the east Kimberley region, Australia, is
host to the Mt Bradley Au deposit, and is likely host to more. Using a
variety of data sets (Landsat, ASTER, magnetics, radiometrics etc.)
the various members of the Olympio Formation can be classified
using a range of automated and guided schemes, including those
offered by Google Earth engine, MATLAB, AuScope Discovery
Portal and other spatial analysis platforms. Validation of the
automated and guided classification will be performed during a field
work in the east Kimberley region. Mapping around the Mt Bradley
Au mine, Olympio Formation and surrounding eastern zone units will
be required to add structural clarity to the classification, as well as
completing a mapping transect through the area. Synthesis of the
remotely classified data, validation and field mapping provide
additional insights into Au prospectivity, as well as advancing the
powerful techniques emerging in this discipline.
This project will be run in collaboration with the Geological Survey of
Western Australia. The scope of this project is compatible for
continuation to Masters and PhD level. Computer experience and
some maths are required.
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Project: Geophysical Inversion of Multiple 3D Geological Models
For majors
including:
Geology, Geophysics, Physics, Computer Science
Supervisor: Mark Lindsay, [email protected], 6488 9572, Mark Jessell
Description: Geophysical inversion uses geophysical data to generate a better
understanding of three-dimensional geological architecture. Inversion
relies on a variety of inputs, such as a 3D geological model and the
magnetic and density properties of the modelled rocks. All of these
inputs are subject to error of some sort. The geological model is built
using sophisticated software and geological data, but relies heavily on
the expertise from the geologist as only a small part of the entire model
is represented by the data. Model construction therefore requires
significant prediction and interpretation in poorly defined regions
where data has not been collected. Multiple geological possibilities are
therefore present in these poorly defined regions, but this is not
acknowledged in most 3D modelling workflows. Further, only one
geological model is input to geophysical inversion, severely limiting
the process to produce the most geologically appropriate result.
This project will develop techniques to generate a platform from which
a parameter sweep of 100’s of geological models can be subjected to
inversion which set of petrophysical (magnetic susceptibility and
density) and geometrical (the 3D geological model) constraints
produce the best geological solution.
This project is aimed at the MSc level for those with an interest in
geophysics. Some computer experience and mathematical knowledge
is required.
Project: 3D modelling of the West African Craton
For majors
including:
Geology Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: Mark Jessell, [email protected], 6488 5803, Mark Lindsay
Description: A number of global and regional geophysical datasets exist for the
West African Craton (WAC), however the signatures of major
lithospheric-scale features (Lithosphere-Asthenosphere Boundary,
Moho, Major Structural boundaries…) remain under-constrained. This
project will critically examine the available datasets in order to build a
full 3D model of the WAC that characterises and then visualises the
uncertainty associated with each interpreted feature.
This project is supported by the CET-led West African Exploration
Initiative, an industry-funded consortium with 10 industry partners,
and the scope is compatible for continuation to Masters or PhD level.
Computer experience and some maths are required.
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Project: Topological uncertainty in 3D geology
For majors
including:
Geology Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
Supervisor: Mark Jessell, [email protected], 6488 5803, Mark Lindsay
Description: The geometry of geological models has long been recognised to be an
important constraint on the validity of forward process modelling and
geophysical inversions, however in many instances the topology of the
model is as important if not more so, especially in situations where the
continuity of lithologies, or the connectivity of structures controls the
outcome, such as in fluid flow or some types of electrical
measurements. This project will examine methods to characterise the
3D topology of geological models as a pathway to classifying end-
member models that can be used in geophysical inversion schemes.
This project is supported by the WA government-funded WA_In3D
project, and the scope is compatible for continuation to Masters or PhD
level. Computer experience and some maths are required.
Project: Web mapping solutions for pre-competitive geoscientific data
distribution
For majors
including:
Computer Science, Environmental Science: Geographic Information
Science and Environmental Management
Supervisor: Vaclav Metelka, [email protected], 6488 1871; David
Glance; Mark Jessell
Description: Web mapping applications are now a standard tool for delivering,
sharing, analysing, or distributing spatial data worldwide. During the
WAXI (West African Exploration Initiative) project a web-mapping
tool called “waxiexplorer” was developed. This tool was also used for
an open-access system called the IM4DC Open Data accessible at
http://opendata.im4dc.org. Both of these web applications enable users
to visualize and download any spatially enabled data that were
gathered through the life of the particular project. These applications
build on open-source web mapping solutions such as Geoserver and
PostgreSQL with the PostGIS extension as well a number of JavaScript
libraries like ExtJS, OpenLayers, GeoExt, and GXP.
The proposed project will aim at upgrading the current platform with
new functionalities and improving the platform efficiency and
architecture mainly using newly developed tools available in the open
source community. The potential students will gain knowledge of open
source web mapping solutions and their application to the distribution
of geoscientific data.
This project would be suitable for Master students with an interest in
web mapping, database applications and open-source software.
Programming experience in JavaScript, HTML, is required (experience
with Python would be a benefit).