PhD Studentship: Climate-Cooling Twins: Investigating The Drivers of Methanethiol and Dimethyl Sulfide Ocean Emissions

Primary Supervisor - Professor David Oram

We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to investigate the drivers of sea-to-air fluxes of the twin climate-cooling gases methanethiol (MeSH) and dimethyl sulfide (DMS).  

Scientific background  

The oceans emit substantial amounts of volatile sulfur in the form of MeSH and DMS. Produced by marine biota, these compounds play a crucial role in cooling the planet by forming aerosol that seed clouds. Historically, DMS has received all the attention as the main source of volatile marine sulfur, but recent work, including that by the supervisory team, has suggested substantial global emissions of MeSH. However, large uncertainties remain, especially with regards to the gas transfer velocity and other factors controlling MeSH fluxes. This study will address some key scientific questions: 

What are the concentrations and fluxes of MeSH in tropical and mid-latitude environments? 

Do current models calculate MeSH and gas transfer velocities correctly? 

Research methodology   

You will deploy a state-of-the-art, time-of-flight mass spectrometer in two contrasting coastal observatories to collect novel datasets of MeSH and DMS concentrations in air and seawater. The data will be used to calculate emissions from the ocean using two complementary techniques. The measurement sites are Cape Verde (tropical Atlantic, warm, high irradiance) and Penlee Point (Cornwall, cool, low irradiance). Measurements under these contrasting conditions will assess and improve our understanding of the oceanic air-sea fluxes of these gases. 

Training  

You will receive training in the use of specialised analytical equipment and coding for data processing (Igor Pro, Python and R). You will be given training opportunities in transferable professional skills e.g. through attendance at NCAS and ARIES events. We will pursue the possibility for you to attend the SOLAS summer school. 

Person specification  

You will have an aptitude for practical work and robust skills in mathematics (prior experience of coding is desirable). Enjoyment of travel is essential. You will have skills in critical thinking and problem solving. You are motivated by pushing the boundaries of knowledge and publishing your insights in peer-reviewed journals. 

We encourage you to embark on a journey to take ground-breaking measurements and make a significant contribution to environmental science. 

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

Funding Details

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.

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