PhD Scholarship Opportunity in Geological Remote Sensing

Massey University, in partnership with industry collaborator Hardie Pacific, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on Earth Observation-based geological mapping and mineral prospectivity. The research will combine satellite hyperspectral imaging, LiDAR digital terrain models, and machine learning techniques to analyze the Otago Schist gold province. The candidate will spend approximately 70% of their time at Massey University in Palmerston North and 30% on industry placements and fieldwork with Hardie Pacific. This project is supported by New Zealand's Applied Doctoral Scheme to bridge academic research and practical industry applications.

• Develop novel remote-sensing and machine-learning workflows for geological mapping and mineral prospectivity analysis
• Integrate satellite hyperspectral imaging datasets such as EMIT, EnMAP, and PRISMA with LiDAR digital terrain models
• Conduct field-based geological mapping and validation activities
• Engage in collaborative research and industry placements with Hardie Pacific in Dunedin
• Prepare research findings for publication and dissemination within academic and industry venues