At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate leopard seal migration and its impact on Antarctic ecosystems.
- Company: Collaborative research between British Antarctic Survey and University of Exeter.
- Benefits: Home tuition fees covered and annual tax-free stipend for eligible students.
- Other info: Access to long-term datasets and professional networks in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Contribute to vital climate change research while gaining valuable skills in ecology and data analysis.
- Qualifications: Strong interest in ecology, data analysis, and conservation.
The predicted salary is between 19350 - 23650 £ per year.
The project will address three key questions:
- How does variability and long-term change in sea ice affect leopard seal migration phenology and population dynamics?
- How do resulting changes in arrival timing influence predation pressure and prey communities at key Antarctic islands?
- How do changes in leopard seal migration provide an early-warning indicator of wider ecosystem responses to climate change?
Leopard seals occupy a highly dynamic apex position in the Southern Ocean, as the only species that regularly preys on other warm-blooded vertebrates while maintaining a unique ability to filter-feed on krill. Their seasonal movements are closely associated with the expansion and retreat of Antarctic pack ice, connecting coastal, pelagic and potentially deep-sea ecosystems across Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions.
Using decades of individual-based leopard seal data from British Antarctic Survey's unique long-term monitoring programme, integrated with remotely sensed sea-ice and environmental data, the student will learn to apply population, phenological and movement models, alongside machine-learning approaches for conservation, to quantify environmental drivers of migration and associated changes in predator occurrence and predation pressure.
The student will receive direct training in population and movement ecology, statistical modelling, remote sensing and machine-learning applications for wildlife conservation, alongside opportunities to develop transferable skills in scientific communication, collaborative research and reproducible data analysis.
The collaboration between the British Antarctic Survey and the University of Exeter will give the student access to complementary expertise in long-term population studies, behavioural ecology, trophic ecology, quantitative methods and ecological modelling. The student will benefit from integration within research groups at both institutions, gaining exposure to different research environments, analytical approaches and professional networks. This builds on an established collaboration in pinniped ecology, providing both the long-term datasets and methodological expertise required to deliver the project successfully.
For eligible students, the studentship will cover home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend.
PhD Studentship: Leopard seal migration as an early-warning signal of Antarctic ecosystem change employer: University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working opportunities, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity and social justice, staff can thrive while contributing to meaningful initiatives that enhance student employability. Located in Exeter, this role provides a unique chance to engage with a diverse community and make a tangible impact on the future of underrepresented students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Leopard seal migration as an early-warning signal of Antarctic ecosystem change
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab Door
Look for internship programmes specifically set up for life sciences or biotechnology students. Many companies, including University of Exeter, offer structured pathways for interns, so check their careers page or your university's career services to snag those early opportunities.
✨Connect with Researchers and Alumni
Tap into biotechnology-focused online communities, such as LinkedIn groups or local biotech meetups. Networking with seasoned professionals or alumni from your university can give you an inside track on internships that may not be widely advertised. A little conversation can go a long way!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
If you haven’t already, volunteer for or participate in research projects at your university. This hands-on experience not only builds your CV but also helps you make connections with faculty who can recommend you or point you to internship opportunities at companies like University of Exeter.
✨Keep Your Application Needs in Mind
When you're ready to apply, make sure your online portfolio reflects relevant projects and any lab techniques you’re familiar with. Showcasing your understanding of biotechnology, particularly what relates to the work done at University of Exeter, can help you stand out from the heap of applicants!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Leopard seal migration as an early-warning signal of Antarctic ecosystem change
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Lab Skills:For a biotech internship, showcasing any relevant lab skills is crucial. If you've worked with lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or CRISPR, make sure these stand out in your CV. We want to see that you have hands-on experience and can contribute from day one.
Share Your Academic Projects:Don't forget to mention any academic projects related to biotechnology. If you've conducted research or completed projects that involved analysis or experimentation, highlight these in your cover letter. It shows us your practical understanding of biotech concepts and your motivation to learn more.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, focus on your passion for biotechnology and your eagerness to learn. Use this space to explain why you want to intern with University of Exeter specifically and how this experience aligns with your career goals. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Include Relevant Coursework:Make sure to list any relevant coursework on your CV. Classes like Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or Bioinformatics can really make you stand out. We want to see that you've got the foundational knowledge, as it helps us gauge how easily you'll adapt to our projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Exeter
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
As we're diving into the biotechnology world, it's essential to refresh your knowledge on commonly used lab techniques. Be prepared to discuss methods like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and CRISPR. They might even ask you to explain the principles behind them or how you've used them in your studies!
✨Show Your Passion for Bioscience
Internships are all about eagerness to learn and grow, so let your enthusiasm for biotechnology shine through! Share any relevant projects, coursework, or volunteer experiences that showcase your motivation and dedication to the field. This will show University of Exeter that you're not just looking for any gig, but you're genuinely excited about contributing to their research.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In a biotech internship interview, be ready for scenarios that test your problem-solving skills. For example, how would you handle a contamination issue in an experiment? Practising these types of questions will help you demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability, which are key traits for any budding biotechnologist.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Biotechnology often involves collaboration, so emphasising your ability to work in a team is crucial. Think about group projects or lab work where you collaborated with peers. Sharing these experiences will show University of Exeter that you're not only a great individual contributor but also a team player, ready to thrive in their collaborative environment.
