PhD candidate in ecological modelling of krill and salps in a changing Southern Ocean

The University of Amsterdam is seeking a PhD candidate to study the ecological interactions between Antarctic krill and salps in the Southern Ocean. This research project aims to understand how climate change, sea-ice loss, and fishing activities influence the population dynamics and grazing behaviors of these key zooplankton species. By developing advanced ecosystem models, the candidate will assess how shifts in species dominance affect vertical carbon export and global ocean carbon cycling. The successful applicant will contribute to reducing uncertainty in future climate projections for the Southern Ocean. This position offers an opportunity to engage in critical research at the intersection of marine ecology and climate science.

• Develop and refine ecosystem models to simulate krill and salp population dynamics.
• Analyze the impact of environmental stressors such as warming and sea-ice loss on zooplankton distribution.
• Quantify the role of krill and salp grazing in vertical carbon export processes.
• Integrate climate and fishing scenario data into predictive ecosystem frameworks.
• Collaborate with international research teams to improve projections of Southern Ocean functioning.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.