PhD Studentship: Decoding Earth's Carbon Cycle with CO2 Polyisotopologues
Explore atmospheric CO2 polyisotopologues to quantify carbon cycling and ecosystem productivity from local to global scales.
Best for:Best for enthusiastic science graduates interested in combining environmental measurements with quantitative data analysis and atmospheric research.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia offers an opportunity to investigate the global carbon cycle using rare atmospheric CO2 polyisotopologues. Operating within the School of Environmental Sciences and in collaboration with Utrecht University, the project combines field measurements with advanced time-series modelling. The candidate will analyse high-precision isotope data from observatories and ship transects to test novel hypotheses on carbon sinks and ecosystem productivity. The position provides comprehensive training in laser-spectroscopy measurements and environmental data analysis.
What you'll do
- Analyse seasonal and interannual variability in triple-oxygen and stable-carbon isotope signatures of atmospheric CO2
- Quantify ecosystem-scale isotope variations to investigate terrestrial carbon cycle processes
- Evaluate isotope gradients from Atlantic transects and remote monitoring sites as indicators of global primary productivity
- Perform state-of-the-art laser-spectroscopic measurements of CO2 and H2O isotopologues
- Apply advanced statistical analysis and modelling to environmental time series
- Disseminate research findings through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or equivalent in a relevant science discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Strong scientific background in environmental or physical sciences
- Interest in combining experimental measurements with quantitative data analysis
- Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative international research team
- Self-motivated and enthusiastic approach to independent research
- Must meet UKRI eligibility criteria for home or international studentships
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-16
Interested applicants should review the entry requirements and submit their application through the university's postgraduate research application portal before the specified deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Transcripts
- Reference letters
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