School of Earth and Environment - University of Western ... · PDF fileSchool of Earth and Environment Potential research projects offered for Level 4 (Honours) and Level 5 (Masters)

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

2

3

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.

mailto:[email protected]

4

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


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.

mailto:david


mailto:david


5

Project: 3D/4D environmental geophysics

For majors



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



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



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.


mailto:david


mailto:david


6

Project: Geophysical analysis of paleo tsunami deposits in WA

For majors

including:

Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science


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.

mailto:david



7

Project Time-lapse Geophysical Monitoring of Fresh-Saltwater Interfaces

For Majors

including


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


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.



8

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.



9

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


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:


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


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:


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.



13

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.



14

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


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


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


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


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


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


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



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



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:


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


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


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


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


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


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


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.





https://events.ccm.com.au/ei/viewpdf.esp?id=126&file=E%3A%5Ceventwin%5Cdocs%5Cpdf%5Csoil2010Abstract01769%2Epdf

https://events.ccm.com.au/ei/viewpdf.esp?id=126&file=E%3A%5Ceventwin%5Cdocs%5Cpdf%5Csoil2010Abstract01769%2Epdf

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


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:



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:


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:


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:


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:


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:


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.



33

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.



34

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).



http://opendata.im4dc.org/

Documents

School of Earth and Environment - University of Western ... · PDF fileSchool of Earth and Environment Potential research projects offered for Level 4 (Honours) and Level 5 (Masters)