University of Exeter / Camborne School of Mines (CSM)   (Research)

The University of Exeter / Camborne School of Mines (CSM) have an EPSRC award available for a 3 year PhD studentship in numerical modelling and analysis of slope stability in fractured rock masses. The project will utilise the capabilities of software codes such FracMan (Golder Associates) and Siroview (developed by CSIRO, Australia) to generate, and subsequently analyse, models of three-dimensional fracture networks. This data will then be incorporated in the code Elfen (Rockfield Software Ltd / University of Wales, Swansea) to model the geomechanical behaviour of the rock mass. Currently members of the Geomechanics Group at CSM are using FracMan in combination with Elfen to model fractured rock mass behaviour associated with underground excavations, but this will be extended to model slope behaviour in the new project. Elfen will be modified to incorporate fluid pressure and flow within the fractures and adjacent matrix. Key objectives of the project are to improve understanding of rock fracture influence on slope instability mechanisms for both natural and man-made slopes and to examine the limitations of rock mass classification as a means to determining rock mass shear strength. We are looking for a candidate with an engineering or earth sciences background, with an interest in numerical modelling applied to slope stability and in the associated field work. The research would be based at the new campus of the University of Exeter in Cornwall at Tremough near Falmouth (see www.exeter.ac.uk/cornwall).

The project would involve significant field work/data collection for a number of case examples. Key data sets will be obtained by visits to locations of coastal instability and quarries / open pits of collaborating companies in UK and overseas. The project will be supervised by Professor Bob Pine and Dr John Coggan (J.Coggan@exeter.ac.uk). The available funding is equivalent to standard EPSRC rates. The Geomechanics Group working on fracture networks currently consists of 2 academic staff, 1 post-doctoral researcher and 4 PhD students. We also have strong links with major international mining and civil engineering companies.

For further information please contact Dr Coggan.

Applications by 31 August 2005.