Southern Ocean sea ice

Variability and trends in Southern Ocean sea ice

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

25 September 2023

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic / International

About the research project

Sea ice forms an ephemeral thin veneer between ocean and atmosphere. The evolution of this layer is governed by a complex interplay between ocean and atmosphere. In the last decade we have observed the two largest winter sea ice extents and the three smallest summer extents in a 44 year-long observational record. What is driving this increased variability, and are we in the midst of a regime shift in Southern Ocean sea ice?

Aims/Objectives
This project aims to:

  • Elucidate causal mechanisms behind the recent increase in variability in Southern Ocean sea ice;
  • Understand the role of long-term ocean warming on sea ice dynamics, and explore the potential for tipping points related to subsurface ocean warming; and,
  • Compare the relative future importance of enhanced ice shelf melt, atmospheric warming, oceanic warming, and wind changes on sea ice.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Dr Edward Doddridge

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

  • a living allowance stipend of $31,500 per annum (2023 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
  • a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
  • a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Additional funding

If successful, applicants will also receive a top-up scholarship of $5,000 per annum for 3.5 years. This scholarship is funded from the Quantitative Marine Science (QMS) Program.

If successful, international applicants will receive single Overseas Health Cover (OSHC), funded by the QMS Program.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

  • Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Strong numerical and analysis skills
  • Ability to program in python or Matlab (python preferred)

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Previous experience with global climate models

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Dr Edward Doddridge to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. In your application:
    • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
    • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
  4. Apply prior to 25 September 2023.

Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

Apply now Explore other projects

Why the University of Tasmania?

Worldwide reputation for research excellence

Quality supervision and support

Tasmania offers a unique study lifestyle experience