At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop near real-time methods to quantify fossil fuel emissions using atmospheric data.
- Company: Join a leading research team focused on climate change and carbon cycle.
- Benefits: Fully-funded studentship covering fees, stipend, and research training grants.
- Other info: Opportunities for international research visits and extensive training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Bachelors in environmental sciences, physics, chemistry, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 20780 - 20780 £ per year.
Overview
Primary Supervisor: Dr Penelope Pickers
Scientific Background: Successful implementation of the Paris agreement relies on countries’ emissions being accurately known and readily available, but our ability to evaluate fossil fuel CO2 (ffCO2) emissions is currently limited.
‘Bottom-up’ emissions estimates, based on inventory-style accounting and mobile tracking data, can differ significantly from each other at policy-relevant scales, while ‘top-down’ estimates, based on atmospheric measurements and modelling, are hampered by large natural fluxes of CO2 between the terrestrial biosphere and the atmosphere.
Research Methodology
The primary objective of this PhD studentship is to develop near real-time capability for top-down ffCO2 quantification, based on synchronous changes in atmospheric CO2 and oxygen (O2) measurements, in combination with complementary tracers such as Radon. Using new data products of fossil fuel O2 and CO2 emission ratios and new measurements from the Weybourne Atmospheric Observatory and the Heathfield Tall Tower in the UK, you will:
- Disentangle atmospheric signals into anthropogenic and natural processes to quantify ffCO2, making use of other tracers such as Radon;
- Investigate O2 and CO2 fossil fuel emissions ratios for the UK;
- Work towards near real-time top-down ffCO2 emissions reporting for the UK;
- Use your new ffCO2 knowledge to re-evaluate land and ocean carbon sink partitioning and investigate carbon budget imbalances.
Training
We will provide extensive 1-to-1 training in:
- High-precision atmospheric O2 and CO2 measurement;
- Measurement of related tracers (e.g., Radon);
- Programming (e.g., R, Python) for advanced atmospheric time-series analyses, including machine learning;
- Skills for presenting research at scientific conferences and writing peer-reviewed papers.
This PhD includes 3-6 months spent at the UK National Physical Laboratory (NPL), for research-led training on inferring CO2 emissions using atmospheric datasets and atmospheric modelling.
Opportunities
There is also the opportunity for a 1-3 month research visit in Wellington, New Zealand, working with state-of-the-art CarbonWatch-NZ data. Attendance at summer schools will provide additional training and networking opportunities.
Person Specification
We seek an enthusiastic team player with strong interest in the carbon cycle and climate change, self-motivation and numerical skills.
Entry Requirements
At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).
Acceptable first degree: environmental sciences, physics, chemistry, natural sciences, engineering, or another subject in a similar area.
Start date
1st October 2026
Funding
ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between homeinternational fees being waived by the registering university. Please note that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.
£20,780 - please see advert
PhD Studentship - Towards Near Real-time Quantification of Fossil Fuel Emissions, CASE project [...] in Norwich employer: University of East Anglia
Join a pioneering research environment dedicated to tackling climate change through innovative methodologies in fossil fuel emissions quantification. As a PhD student, you will benefit from extensive training, collaborative opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a unique research stint at the UK National Physical Laboratory and potential international exposure in New Zealand. Our supportive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, making this an exceptional opportunity for those passionate about environmental science and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship - Towards Near Real-time Quantification of Fossil Fuel Emissions, CASE project [...] in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former PhD students in your field, especially those who have worked on similar projects. They can provide insider tips and might even know about unadvertised opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to your research interests. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the carbon cycle and climate change during interviews. Share specific examples of your work or projects that highlight your enthusiasm and expertise in the area.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship - Towards Near Real-time Quantification of Fossil Fuel Emissions, CASE project [...] in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the PhD project. We want to see your passion for the carbon cycle and climate change, so don’t hold back!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention any relevant programming skills, especially in R or Python. We’re keen on candidates who can handle advanced atmospheric time-series analyses, so let us know what you’ve got!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your enthusiasm shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of East Anglia
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest research and methodologies related to fossil fuel emissions and atmospheric measurements. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' estimates, as well as the significance of tracers like Radon. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for climate change and the carbon cycle during the interview. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to this area. A strong passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the PhD project, the training you'll receive, or the team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since the role involves presenting research at conferences, practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. You might even want to do a mock presentation to a friend or family member to get comfortable with your delivery.
