PhD Scholarship in Ground Use and Recovery: A PhD scholarship is available at the University of Auckland – Waipapa Taumata Rau, Aotearoa New Zealand, with applications due by 26 January 2024. The project focuses on understanding the drivers of foraging ground use and recovery in Southern Ocean climate sentinels, specifically the southern right whale (tohorā). This research contributes to the Tohorā nō Aotearoa project led by Associate Professor Emma Carroll and aligns with the International Whaling Commission – Southern Ocean Research Partnership.
Designation: PhD Candidate
Research Area: Southern Ocean Climate, Southern Right Whale Foraging Behavior, Isoscape Analysis
Location: University of Auckland – Waipapa Taumata Rau, Aotearoa New Zealand
Eligibility/Qualification: We seek an enthusiastic, motivated candidate with a background in science or statistics, having completed a significant research project at the university level, such as a dissertation or thesis. The ideal candidate should have experience with coding, or a willingness to learn, in languages such as Python, R, and/or Bash scripting. We particularly encourage students from under-represented groups in STEM, including Māori, Pasifika, other Indigenous groups, lower socio-economic status students, and first-generation university students.
Job Description:
PhD Scholarship in Southern Right Whale Foraging Ground Use and Recovery
The project aims to use a cutting-edge isoscape approach to investigate the ocean-basin level trend in the foraging ground use and recovery of southern right whales. This involves analyzing whale skin isotope data, including compound-specific data, from a published dataset covering the Southern Hemisphere and a genetic monitoring project from the Maungahuka – Auckland Islands wintering ground. The research will track changes in foraging ground use in relation to factors such as oceanographic and environmental conditions, age, reproductive status, and sex. The findings will be linked to body condition and reproduction, providing deeper insight into how southern right whales respond to the changing ocean.
How to Apply: Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Associate Professor Emma Carroll at e.carroll@auckland.ac.nz to discuss the project. To apply, candidates should submit a short summary highlighting their relevant experience or qualifications, a CV, contact information for two references, and a writing sample via email.
Last Date for Apply: 26 January 2024
PhD Supervisory Committee:
- Primary Supervisor: Associate Professor Emma Carroll
- Supervisory Committee: Professor Seth Newsome, Dr Geraldine Busquets-Vass, Dr Solène Derville, Dr Fredrik Christiansen, Dr Alice della Penna, Professor Rochelle Constantine
Candidate Requirements:
- Background in science or statistics
- Completed a significant research project at the university level
- Experience with coding (Python, R, and/or Bash scripting) or willingness to learn
- Encouragement for students from under-represented groups in STEM
Entry Requirements: University of Auckland’s entry requirements for doctoral studies can be found here.
