PhD Candidate in Ecological Modelling of Krill and Salps in a Changing Southern Ocean
Develop stage-structured population models to understand how climate change and sea-ice loss impact Southern Ocean carbon export.
Best for:Best for candidates with an MSc in natural sciences, strong programming skills, and a passion for marine ecosystem modelling.
Overview
The University of Amsterdam is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics. This project investigates the population dynamics of Antarctic krill and salps and their critical role in vertical carbon export within the Southern Ocean. The successful applicant will develop stage-structured population models and couple them with ocean-sea-ice-biogeochemical frameworks to project future ecosystem functioning. The role involves interdisciplinary research, collaboration with a computational support team, and participation in teaching activities. Candidates should have a strong background in quantitative ecology, mathematical modelling, and programming.
What you'll do
- Develop and analyze stage-structured population models for krill and salp species.
- Couple population models with ocean-sea-ice-biogeochemical frameworks to quantify carbon export impacts.
- Complete and defend a PhD thesis within the four-year appointment period.
- Publish research findings in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Present research results at scientific conferences and group meetings.
- Assist in teaching undergraduate and master-level students.
- Supervise bachelor and master students in their research projects.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc in biological sciences, computational, mathematical, earth, or marine sciences.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English (proficient in spoken and written).
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated experience with mathematical modelling.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as R, Python, Matlab, or C++.
- Ability to learn new computational methods and concepts.
- Strong interest in marine ecosystems, polar regions, or biogeochemistry.
- Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.
- Must hold or be near completion of an MSc degree in a relevant natural science field.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-18
Applications must be submitted via the online portal. All required documents, excluding the CV, should be combined into a single PDF file.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- List of publications
- Contact details of two references
Contact
Cara Nissen
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