How will future weather reshape phytoplankton blooms at oceanic fronts? (Physical Oceanography)

Overview

Explosive phytoplankton blooms have recently been discovered at fronts bordering the Southern Ocean in the wake of synoptic (2-15 day) weather systems. These challenge our understanding of the processes that underpin these productivity hotspots. Due to a lack of direct observations and simulations at the time- and space-scales on which phytoplankton grow, we cannot yet explain why these blooms occur – or, more pressingly, how they might change in a stormier future. This PhD opportunity sets out to answer that.

The successful candidate will configure, run and analyse regional ocean model simulations (CROCO) coupled to biogeochemistry (PISCES), resolving the submesoscale (0.2–20 km) physical processes that govern phytoplankton growth at fronts. They will use these simulations to develop a mechanistic account of how weather, ocean dynamics and biology interact to drive phytoplankton blooms at scales that global models cannot reach. The candidate will also have opportunities to contribute to research voyages to ground simulations in real observations.

We are looking for an ambitious candidate with a strong quantitative background and an appetite for numerical modelling. You will join the Department of Marine Science at the University of Otago, on the edge of the Southern Ocean, collaborating with a team from Earth Sciences New Zealand and work within a research programme supported by the Marsden Fund Council from Government funding, managed by Royal Society Te Apārangi.

About the PhD position

The PhD position includes a tax-free stipend/scholarship of NZ$35,000 per year for 3.0 years and covers full university tuition fees. Funding is also available for some expenses, including travel to collaborators and national/international conferences.

The position is open to all nationalities (i.e., the successful applicants do not have to be an NZ or Australian citizen). An international candidate (i.e., non-NZ or non-Australian) will be required to apply for an NZ student visa to be allowed to study in NZ. Where English is not an applicant’s first or native language, evidence of English language proficiency that meets the requirements for Postgraduate Study at the University of Otago will be required.

English languge requirements

About the PhD candidate

Applicants should have completed an MSc and/or BSc(Hons) degree in one or more of the following disciplines: oceanography, physics, mathematics or computer science. Strong skills in data analysis, written and oral communication and coding in MATLAB, Python, Julia and/or Fortran are also essential.

Interested applicants should contact Dr Robert Smith at robert.smith@otago.ac.nz and attach:

1. a Curriculum Vitae,
2. a copy of your academic transcript(s),
3. a brief statement of research experience and interests,
4. an indication of your potential start date.

Shortlisted applicants will also be requested to provide the names and contact details of two academic referee willing to provide confidential comments on your suitability for the project.

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago