This fully funded PhD opportunity at Northumbria University, as part of the Net Zero Polar Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NZPS DTP), aims to advance our understanding of the feedbacks between Antarctic ice sheet retreat and volcanic activity, while reducing the carbon footprint of polar research. The project addresses a critical gap in climate science: how the loss of ice in Antarctica may trigger increased volcanic activity, which in turn could accelerate atmospheric warming and further ice loss. Despite evidence for over 100 potentially active volcanoes beneath the West Antarctic ice sheet, this feedback mechanism is not yet considered in major climate models such as those used by the IPCC.

The research will combine state-of-the-art ice sheet modelling with the analysis of sedimentary core records to reconstruct past volcanic activity and its relationship to ice volume changes over the last deglaciation (~20,000 years). You will have the opportunity to visit core repositories, create a database of volcanic ash layers in Southern Ocean sediments, and compare these records to modelled ice sheet data. The project will focus on the West Antarctic ice sheet, particularly the Pine Island Glacier, using model simulations and mantle melting models to clarify the mechanistic links between ice retreat and volcanism.

Technical approaches include constructing ice sheet load histories from existing modelling data (Parallel Ice Sheet Model coupled to 3D Viscoelastic Lithosphere and Mantle model), applying novel methods for identifying volcanic ash layers in sediment cores, and developing magma chamber models tuned with actual ice load data. For the first time, future projections with ice sheet models will be analysed in relation to volcanic activity, providing new insights into potential climate feedbacks.

Importantly, this project will quantify the carbon footprint reduction achieved by re-using model output data and already-collected samples, as opposed to traditional carbon-intensive methods such as ship-based fieldwork and supercomputer modelling. Training will be provided in numerical modelling, in collaboration with PISM modellers at the Max-Planck-Institute for Geoanthropology (Germany), and there is potential to develop magma chamber modelling with colleagues at Brown University (USA). Fieldwork will focus on describing existing sediment cores rather than new sample collection.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in geology, physical geography, physics, or mathematics. Experience in volcanology or glaciology is beneficial but not essential. Entry requirements include a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a relevant subject, or a relevant master's qualification or equivalent professional practice. International applicants must meet the minimum language requirements for their Home institution.

Funding is available for both Home/UK and international (including EU) students, subject to quality assurance and UKVI compliance. The studentship includes a full stipend at UKRI rates (£20,780 per year for 2025/26), full tuition fees, and an annual Research Training and Support Grant (RTSG). Part-time studentships are available for Home applicants. Additional costs may apply for international students.

To apply, follow the NZPS application process guidance, complete the online application form by 17.00 GMT on 7th January 2026, and submit any required documents to [email protected]. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Jack Longman at [email protected].

References for further reading include recent publications by Longman et al. (2025, Nature Communications), Tuffen (2010, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A), and Reese et al. (2023, The Cryosphere).