Marine Science PhD Studentship

Ref: PML39713

Project Title: Size fractionated estimates of phytoplankton primary production from satellite in the UK shelf seas.

PML, in collaboration with the Universities of Oxford and Southampton, has an exciting opportunity for a PhD studentship based within the Earth Observation research group with a joint research team of Dr. Gavin Tilstone (PML) , Prof. Shubha Sathyendranath (PML), Dr. Heather Bouman (Oxford) and Dr. Anna Hickman (Southampton). The studentship will have access to world class research facilities and will operate at the forefront of Satellite Ocean Colour research.

The fixation of atmospheric carbon by phytoplankton contributes significantly to carbon flux through different trophic pathways in the marine environment, though this differs depending on the phytoplankton group or class. Trends in carbon fixation in different phytoplankton groups over time could shift under the influence of climate change. In situ methods used to monitor these are limited both spatially and temporally. This NERC funded PhD will develop and validate remote sensing algorithms of size fractionated production for the UK shelf seas. It will generate an 18 year time series using merged ocean colour data over many missions and compare trends in contrasting shelf seas.

The successful student will be based primarily at PML to access the NERC Western English Channel and conduct sampling at the time series stations, and will also take part in research cruises in the UK Shelf Seas. You will gain an extensive understanding of carbon fixation in the Shelf Seas and participate in research of global significance.

You will be registered at the Department of Earth Science, Oxford University. The project will make use of state-of-the-art field, laboratory, computing and instrumentation facilities available across the three institutions.

This studentship will commence in October 2013 or earlier if possible. For further information, please contact Dr. Gavin Tilstone (ghti@pml.ac.uk).

Eligibility

Applicants must have, or expect to obtain, a good honours degree in Remote Sensing or Marine Sciences. Any further post-graduate training or relevant experience would be highly beneficial. You must meet the eligibility criteria specified by NERC; for further details of these see: www.nerc.ac.uk/funding/application/studentships/studentbook2011.doc

At PML you will benefit from access to the latest computer, networking and communications technology, modern laboratory instrumentation, the National Marine Biological Library (NMBL) and two modern inshore research vessels. In addition, PML runs a lively Sports & Social Club, providing a variety of free and subsidised facilities and activities.

How to apply

Please send you CV and covering letter to:
Mrs E Matthews, Human Resources, Plymouth Marine Laboratory,
Prospect Place, Plymouth, PL1 3DH.
T: +44(0)1752 633100; E: vacancies@pml.ac.uk
Quoting Reference: PML39713

Closing date for applications is 1200hrs on 31st May 2013.

Charity No. 1091222 Company No. 4178503