Testing the potential of Calcium-based marine CO2 removal to counteract coastal phosphorus eutrophication

About the research project

Excess phosphorus from agriculture, wastewater, and other human activities is a major cause of coastal water pollution worldwide. Elevated phosphorus levels can trigger harmful algal blooms, degrade water quality, and damage marine ecosystems. At the same time, new approaches are being developed to remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and help mitigate climate change. This project explores whether these two environmental challenges can be addressed together.

The project will investigate calcium-based marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), an emerging climate mitigation approach that involves adding calcium-rich minerals to seawater and sediments. While the primary goal is to enhance atmospheric CO₂ uptake, it may also promote the formation of stable calcium-phosphorus minerals that permanently remove phosphorus from coastal waters.

The PhD candidate will examine the conditions under which phosphorus can be immobilised through interactions with dissolved calcium, and assess how effective this process could be in different coastal environments. Research activities may include laboratory experiments, seawater chemistry analyses, geochemical modelling, and the study of mineral formation pathways. The project will contribute to a better understanding of the environmental co-benefits and potential trade-offs of marine carbon dioxide removal.

The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of marine biogeochemistry, coastal ecology, and carbon removal. They will work closely with leading researchers in marine carbon dioxide removal and nutrient cycling and have opportunities to develop expertise in experimental and analytical techniques relevant to both climate and water-quality research.

This project is ideal for applicants interested in marine science, environmental chemistry, biogeochemistry, or climate change mitigation. The outcomes will help inform the development of marine CO₂ removal strategies that not only address climate change but may also contribute to healthier and more resilient coastal ecosystems.

Primary supervisor

Meet Associate Professor Lennart Bach

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 funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum 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)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

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

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for 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:

• Applications are open to Domestic/International/Onshore applicants
• Applications are open to applicants from biological oceanography, marine biogeochemistry, sediment geochemistry discipline background only
• English language score must be above minimum entry requirements for this project

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:

• Honours or Master degree in biological/chemical oceanography or closely related field (e.g. marine biogeochemistry or sediment geochemistry). Preferably experience with phosphorus cycling in marine sediments.
• Experience with laboratory work, with attention to detail and thorough procedural competence.
• Strong abilities to work in teams and collaborative environments.
• Ability and willingness to spend extended periods in the field (e.g. field research).
• Enthusiasm for scientific discourse and progress.
• Fluent English skills.
• Very good writing skills.
• Reliable and highly motivated.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Associate Professor Lennart Bach 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 1 October 2026.

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.

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