Carbonate chemistry and alkalinity dynamics in the coastal ocean (Chemical Oceanography/Biogeochemis

Organisation/Company University of Otago Department Marine Science Research Field Chemistry » Other Environmental science » Earth science Geosciences » Hydrology Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 31 Aug 2026 - 23:00 (Europe/Brussels) Country New Zealand Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description The Department of Marine Science at the University of Otago (Aotearoa New Zealand) and Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ) seek applicants for a PhD study on coastal ocean alkalinity dynamics to start August 2026 or soon thereafter. We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to work within the broader ‘ Catching Marine Carbon: testing ocean solutions for climate mitigation using natural analogues ’ project, which aims to develop a monitoring, reporting, and verification framework for marine carbon dioxide removal technologies within Aotearoa. Alkalinity determines how much carbon dioxide can be stored in the ocean, yet the alkalinity sources to the ocean and how these sources change with environmental changes (e.g. ocean acidification, ocean alkalinity enhancement) are poorly constrained. The candidate's role is to apply measurements of stable carbon isotopes to advance our understanding of carbonate chemistry dynamics in the ocean. Requirements Research Field Chemistry Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Environmental science Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Physics Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Geosciences Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Skills/Qualifications We are looking for a flexible and creative person, who is highly motivated to tackle new and complex questions at the interface between physics and geochemistry. You hold a masters (MSc) and/or BSc (Hons) degree - or is expected to have one before the starting date of the position - in marine science, biogeochemistry, physics, or a related discipline in the Natural Sciences , and have a strong interest in cross-disciplinary research; Candidates who have experience with carbonate system and/or isotopic measurements are particularly encouraged to apply. You are creative, possess excellent organisational skills, and have a cooperative mindset; You are an excellent team player, and enthusiastic to learn new technologies; 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. A fully funded 3-year PhD scholarship, which includes a tax-free stipend / scholarship of NZ$35,000 per year and a full university tuition fee waiver; An interdisciplinary work environment in the ‘Centre for Oceanography’ which combines experts from both Earth Sciences New Zealand and the University of Otago; Access to state-of-the-art carbonate chemistry analytical facilities, including the capacity to analyze 13C isotopes from solid and dissolved carbonates; Access to a marine field station equipped with experimental facilities, including climate-controlled rooms; Opportunities to participate in sea-going expeditions; Eligibility criteria You hold a masters (MSc) and/or BSc (Hons) degree - or is expected to have one before the starting date of the position - in marine science, biogeochemistry, physics, or a related discipline in the Natural Sciences 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. a cover letter specifying the motivation to apply for the position (max. 2 pages) a short CV, including an abstract of the thesis a copy of your academic transcripts contact details of 2 referees The position will remain open until it is filled Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview The Department of Marine Science was established in 1992, but we have a long history of marine research and teaching at the University of Otago. We are a multidisciplinary department with research strengths across the spectrum of marine sciences. We host the ESNZ national carbonate chemistry facilities. Information about the Department of Marine Science, its staff, current teaching and research, can be obtained from http://www.otago.ac.nz/marinescience . The Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ) is a Crown Research Institute in New Zealand. It specializes in environmental research and consultancy in water, atmospheric, and marine sciences. Established in 1992, ESNZ focuses on providing scientific knowledge and solutions for environmental management, sustainable resource use, and understanding climate and weather patterns. Its work supports decision-making in areas such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, water quality, and natural hazard resilience. ESNZ operates specialized computing facilities, research vessels, atmospheric monitoring facilities, and a network of environmental monitoring stations across New Zealand. Further information about ESNZ is available from Earth Sciences New Zealand. #J-18808-Ljbffr