Ecosystem function of key marine habitats in the Mediterranean: shallow seagrasses to deep coralligenous reefs

About the project

This PhD studentship, co-funded by Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation (Greece) and the University of Essex, will explore the benefits of protection and recovery of key Mediterranean marine habitats – from shallow subtidal seagrasses to coralligenous reefs with a focus on biodiversity and fishery enhancement and the role these habitats play in the Blue Carbon economy of the Aegean sea. There is ample scope for any candidate to develop their own research ideas and interests.

The PhD scholarship is fully funded (UK Home fees and maintenance grant at University of Essex rates) for a three year programme, with flexible start dates in April 2023 or October 2023.

The student will be supervised by Dr Anastasia Milou (Archipelagos), Dr Tom Cameron, Dr Michelle Taylor & Professor Leanne Hepburn (School of Life Sciences, University of Essex), within a wider supervisory team (see list below).

The project is largely field-based in the Mediterranean working closely with Archipelagos with opportunity for many days at sea. The student will receive training in appropriate field and experimental techniques including but not limited to use of drop-down and ROV transect videography, sonar and mapping, sampling and analysis of sediments, real-time marine respirometry. The successful student will be associated with the NERC ARIES DTP, and can take part in cohort training within that framework.

It is expected that as a sponsored scientist – the candidate will assist Archipelagos with the supervision of intern projects that support the PhD project at the marine field research stations in Greece, and contribute 1 week of teaching a year for the Essex Field Course at Archipelagos.

Funding

The studentship will provide the PhD candidate with a cost of living stipend of at least £16,000 per annum and cover UK resident tuition fees. In addition Archipelagos will provide basic accommodation and board in the Aegean sea field sites.

International applicants are eligible to apply but they would have to demonstrate they have funding to cover the difference between UK and International tuition fees, that difference is approximately £14,800 per year at present.

Criteria

Applications are invited from candidates with, or expecting to receive a 1st class or upper second class BSc. degree in a relevant science subject, and/or an appropriate Masters level qualification, or equivalent experience.

The successful candidate will need to be able to carry out active fieldwork in remote locations.

Experience or enthusiasm for working with a range of professionals in a multidisciplinary team, and possession of a valid driving licence are desirable.

How to apply

Please apply by emailing a CV and covering letter explaining why you are suitable for and excited by this opportunity, why you think its important and address any eligibility requirements, to Emma Revill (ecrix@essex.ac.uk).

The deadline for applications is 4:00pm on Monday 6th March 2023.

If you have any questions please contact the lead supervisor, Dr Tom Cameron (tcameron@essex.ac.uk).