PhD Studentship: The Impact of Sea Ice, Glaciers and Icebergs on Carbon Cycling in Antarctic Waters

Scientific background 

The polar regions play a disproportionate role in regulating the Earth’s climate and are experiencing some of the most rapid warming observed in recent years. For example, rapid warming is resulting in ice loss from glaciers and a dramatic change in sea ice dynamics along the West Antarctic Peninsula. Whilst the ocean takes up a quarter of human-made carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, we do not know how enhanced meltwater input, iceberg discharge, and changes in sea ice will influence this carbon sink, via changes in phytoplankton growth, brine formation, and  meltwater-driven stratification and sea ice as physical barriers to air-sea gas exchange. 

The aim of this project is to quantify the impact of sea ice and icebergs on ocean carbon uptake along the Antarctic Peninsula. 

Research methodology 

You will explore the processes driving ocean carbon uptake at different locations along the Antarctic Peninsula. You will use data and samples collected from the Rothera Time Series (RaTS) site near Adelaide Island to quantify the importance of sea ice, as well as surface and subsurface glacial meltwater for ocean carbon uptake and carbon transfer to depth. In addition, you will use samples collected as part of the BIOPOLE project near giant iceberg A23a to assess the impact of iceberg melt and mixing processes on ocean carbon dynamics. You may also determine the impacts of, and feedbacks on, ocean carbon uptake (i.e., ocean acidification) on local marine ecosystems. You will be able to place your new data in a wider perspective using data from other ship-based expeditions and marine autonomy. 

Training 

You will: 

• Gain expertise in ocean nutrient and carbon measurements; 
• Work with shipboard, timeseries, glider, float, and satellite datasets; 
• Join the RaTS and BIOPOLE science teams; 
• Present research at an international scientific conference and in peer-reviewed publications; 

While fieldwork is not an integral part of this project, there would likely be opportunities to gain field experience during your research. 

Person specification 

We seek an enthusiastic, pro-active individual with strong scientific interests, self-motivation and numerical skills

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in a Bachelor’s degree in physics, chemistry, natural sciences, mathematics, computing, environmental sciences, or similar numerical subject. 

Start Date

1 October 2025

Additional Funding Information

ARIES is awaiting confirmation of funding under the BBSRC-NERC DLA award scheme, which is expected shortly. Funding for this studentship is subject to this confirmation and UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded ARIES studentship of fees, maintenance stipend (£19,237 p.a. for 2024/25) and research costs. 

A limited number of ARIES studentships are available to International applicants. Please note however that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK. 

ARIES is committed to equality, diversity, widening participation and inclusion in all areas of its operation. We encourage applications from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, and transgender status. Projects have been developed with consideration of a safe, inclusive, and appropriate research and fieldwork environment. Academic qualifications are considered alongside non-academic experience, with equal weighting given to experience and potential. 

For further information, please visit www.aries-dtp.ac.uk 

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

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