Applications are invited for a PhD scholarship at the University of Bath (UK) starting October 2014 for a project investigating biophysical interactions in stratified lakes. The aims of this work are to directly measure turbulence from vertical migrations of zooplankton, quantify how much mixing the migrations cause, and determine the importance of this mechanism in lakes. Answering these questions will help us better understand the physical drivers of water quality in lakes, environments upon which society depends for many key ecosystem services. This work will be done in collaboration with Dr. Stephen Thackeray at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in Lancaster (UK).
The project will involve extensive fieldwork and data analysis using Matlab. Applicants should have a degree in engineering or physics, although candidates with a degree in an environment-related science and demonstrated quantitative skills will also be considered. Preferred qualifications include Matlab skills, fieldwork experience, and strong English communication abilities.
Funding is for full time study only and lasts three years. It provides UK/EU tuition fees, an annual stipend of £13,726 for living expenses, and a training support grant of £1,000 per year (for travel, consumables, etc.) Excellent Overseas applicants may be considered for the University of Bathâs 50th Anniversary Excellence Studentships.
The Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering at Bath is ranked No. 2 in the UK. The university is located in southwest England in idyllic Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient roman baths, gothic abbey, and Georgian architecture.
Interested applicants should send a cover letter describing their interest and experience in the area, a CV, and a list of references to Dr. Danielle Wain at d.j.wain@bath.ac.uk.
To apply for this post via email, please click on the Apply button below.
Suitable candidates will be instructed to complete an online application form. Preference will be given to applications received before 15 January 2014.