PhD Studentship - Bio-optical Approaches to Probing Biological Productivity and Carbon Cycling in Antarctic Waters

Primary Supervisor: Prof Kate Hendry

Scientific background: 

Meltwater fluxes from glaciers and ice shelves are increasing across West Antarctica as a result of oceanic warming as well as an increase in atmospheric temperatures. The increase in freshwater inputs into the ocean are likely linked to changes in biological productivity, either through the resulting physical changes to the water column or because of changes in nutrient conditions. However, the exact nature of mechanistic link between enhanced freshwater flux and biological productivity, and the impacts on carbon export and sequestration, are poorly understood and require robust quantification if we are to improve our predictions of future responses to climatic changes.  

Research methodology: 

You will analyse ship-based and glider bio-optical (fluorescence and backscatter) data from a 2025 research expedition to the Bellingshausen Sea, West Antarctica, coupled with data from laboratory analyses of algal pigments, particulate and dissolved nutrients and freshwater tracers. These data will be combined with co-located physical oceanographic data to carry out a robust calibration of the glider bio-optics data, and investigate the drivers of biogeochemical (BGC) cycling in the region. There will be opportunities to expand the geographical reach of the dataset with data from other glider deployments in West Antarctica. You will also have an opportunity to learn laboratory methods for analysis of relevant BGC parameters. 

Training: 

You will be based in the Polar Oceans Team at British Antarctic Survey, a highly active research team focused on both observations and modelling of the physics and biogeochemistry of Antarctic shelf seas. You will gain experience in computer coding, statistics for environmental science, working with and piloting autonomous underwater vehicles such as gliders. You will have the opportunity to be trained in BGC laboratory methods (e.g., nutrient and pigment analyses). There may be the opportunity to participate in ocean-going fieldwork onboard polar class research vessels such as the RRS Sir David Attenborough to gain experience of fieldwork at sea (subject to medical and sea-survival training). 

Person specification: 

We seek a highly numerate individual with a strong interest in handling ocean data from diverse platforms to gain important new insights into this highly climatically-relevant part of the world’s ocean. We require someone with previous experience in programming, and an interest in biogeochemistry, but do not necessarily require environmental science as a first degree. Previous laboratory experience is desirable but not a pre-requisite. 

 Entry Requirements:

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

Acceptable first degree:

Any numerate degree (e.g. Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental/Earth Sciences).

Start date: 1^st October 2026

Funding

ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees being waived by the registering university. Please note, however, that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.

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