Experimental Investigation of Magma Ocean–Atmosphere Interactions
Experimental petrology or geochemistry
Magma oceans were common on terrestrial bodies during the early Solar System and are also prevalent on young exoplanets and tidally locked worlds. With advancing astronomical observation techniques, we can now study the atmospheres of these lava worlds in greater detail. This PhD project aims to develop and implement a novel experimental approach to connect the chemistry of exoplanet atmospheres with magma ocean compositions, providing critical thermodynamic data for interpreting these observations. The research will focus on how the chemical composition and redox state of magma oceans influence the molecular makeup of their atmospheres. Ideal candidates have a background in experimental petrology or geochemistry and a strong interest in laboratory research.