PhD Opportunity in Marine Sciences: Oceanography, Biogeochemical Carbon Cycling, Trophic Dynamics, and Microplastic Contamination University of Cádiz in Spain

The GYROVAGO project is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity focused on unraveling biogeochemical change and ecosystem responses in the Eastern North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre (ENASG). Hosted at the University of Cádiz (UCA), this interdisciplinary doctoral position centers on marine sciences, with research areas including physical oceanography, ocean dynamics, biogeochemical carbon cycling, trophic dynamics, and microplastic contamination. The project aims to characterize the functioning of the ENASG, including the Canary Current and the ESTOC long-term observatory, through oceanographic cruises, autonomous observing platforms, and advanced data analysis.

Doctoral trainees will participate in research cruises, studying mixing, turbulence, and water masses, and support onboard measurements of carbon, zooplankton, and microplastics. The program offers tailored training with co-supervision from UCA and ULPGC, including research stays at centers of excellence. Candidates will have access to long-term datasets, multidisciplinary sampling campaigns, and international collaborations, with opportunities for short stays at partner institutions and support for attending conferences and workshops.

Applicants should have a strong interest in interdisciplinary marine science, motivation for field campaigns and data analysis, and a commitment to collaborative research. Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Sciences, Oceanography, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, or related fields, with a Master’s degree and research experience in physical oceanography, marine trophic ecology, and marine carbon cycle considered advantageous. High proficiency in data analysis and visualization (Shell scripting, CDO, Python, R, or MATLAB) is essential, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The position is fully funded for four years, with salary according to the FPI 2024 call. Training covers physical oceanography, trophic dynamics, biogeochemical cycles, microplastic and contaminant analyses, and glider use. All candidates must register in the Doctorate Program in Marine Sciences and Technology at the University of Cádiz, and non-Spanish degree titles must be officially homologated/recognized in Spain.

To apply, candidates should send a motivation letter and CV to the team leaders, Dr. Airam Sarmiento (CSIC) and Dr. Alfredo Izquierdo (UCA), via email. Documents must be in English. For further details, contact the supervisors directly.