Job Title:
PhD Studentship
Job Location:
Plymouth, UK
Job Location Type:
Hybrid
Job Contract Type:
Full-time
Job Seniority Level:
COCO-VOC studentship opportunity: Sniffing organic gases emitted from atmospheric particulates and understanding their importance
Supervisors
Primary Supervisor:
Mingxi Yang, Plymouth Marine Laboratory
Co-supervisors:
* Lucy Carpenter, University of York
* Thomas Bell, Plymouth Marine Laboratory
* Frances Hopkins, Plymouth Marine Laboratory
Proposed Start Date:
After March 2025
Scientific Background
The surface oceans are both a source and sink of a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In the marine atmosphere, these gases react with hydroxyl radicals (OH) and determine the reactivity of the atmosphere. VOCs also act as precursors to organic aerosol (atmospheric particulates), which can seed/brighten marine clouds and modulate the amount of the sun’s energy reaching the Earth’s surface.
The ability for the atmosphere to self-cleanse through oxidation by OH (aka oxidative capacity) is a key determinant for climate and air quality. Yet ~1/4 of OH reactivity over the oceans remains unexplained, implying unaccounted marine VOC sources. Recent research shows that reactions with light and ozone at the sea surface microlayer (SML) lead to significant VOC emissions into the marine atmosphere. Sub-micron marine aerosol is also enriched in organics, suggesting it may represent an additional VOC source over the oceans.
Research Methodology
You will collect bulk marine aerosol samples from a research cruise as part of the funded project COCO-VOC, at the Cape Verde Atmospheric Observatory, and at Penlee Point Atmospheric Observatory. Laboratory experiments will be performed to quantify VOC emissions using a flow cell under various light/ozone conditions. Both aged marine aerosol and fresh sea spray aerosol will be investigated and compared. State-of-the-art mass spectrometers will be used to detect any changes in VOCs due to production from marine aerosol.
The organic composition of marine aerosol as well as SML/bulk seawater will provide useful context for these measurements. The wider impact of the results will be explored using box and global modelling.
While the broad remit of the project has been laid out here, we will welcome ideas from the student and will help steer the project to suit their skillset and interests. You will have opportunities to work with many investigators across several disciplines during fieldwork. This unique opportunity will substantially broaden your research perspective and stimulate many new ideas.
Training
In addition to specialised training in air-sea exchange and marine biogeochemistry, you will have access to transferable skills courses provided by PML, such as programming, analysis of big data, presentation, quality assurance, health and safety, and scientific writing. PML is part of several DTPs and regional partnerships, offering access to various training courses.
Research Environment
You will be welcomed into a multidisciplinary working environment at PML, with over 160 staff and ~20 postgraduate students. You will also be integrated into the WACL atmospheric chemistry laboratory at York, offering substantial opportunities to develop skills across several disciplines.
How To Apply
Please submit your application by 1700 on the closing date of 26th January 2025. Interviews are likely to be held during w/c 24th February.
Applications Should Include
* CV
* Covering letter/Personal Statement
* Academic Recommendation (up to 2 will be considered)
Please note: The funding level for this position is fixed and corresponds to the university fees of a UK home student. International applicants must demonstrate financial means for additional fees.
If you have any questions or would like an informal discussion about the studentship, please contact the supervisor using the contact information above.
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