PhD in Autonomous Ice-Nucleating Particle Monitoring with Minimal Carbon Footprint (Net Zero Polar Science DTP) University of Leeds in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds is part of the Net Zero Polar Science Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), designed to advance polar science in a net zero world. The project addresses a critical uncertainty in global climate projections: the properties of low-level clouds over the Southern Ocean, which are influenced by the concentrations and sources of ice-nucleating particles (INPs). These particles play a pivotal role in cloud formation and radiative balance, and their concentrations can vary dramatically across space and time.

The research aims to improve understanding of INP sources and concentrations over the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. You will quantify the ice-nucleating activity of mineral dusts from high-latitude South American and Antarctic sources using laboratory aerosol chambers and advanced instrumentation. The project includes analysis of aerosol samples collected during the 2024 Southern Ocean Cloud cruise, employing electron microscopy to determine size-resolved composition. You will also participate in fieldwork aboard an Australian research vessel, measuring INP concentrations using both online and offline techniques.

A unique aspect of this project is the net zero case study, which will assess the carbon emissions associated with long-term ground-based INP measurements using the autonomous PINE (Portable Ice Nucleation Experiment) chamber compared to traditional filter-based methods. The PINE instrument's Stirling Engine cooling system is significantly more energy-efficient than conventional compressor-based systems, and its autonomous operation reduces the need for travel, supporting the DTP's net zero goals.

Technical approaches include laboratory aerosol chamber experiments with the PINE online INP counter, filter sampling for offline analysis, and electron microscopy for detailed aerosol composition studies. The project combines online and offline measurement techniques during field deployments, offering comprehensive training in state-of-the-art environmental monitoring.

Training opportunities feature a three-month internship at CSIRO in Australia with Dr Ruhi Humphries, providing experience in atmospheric composition measurements and exposure to a non-university research environment. Additional fieldwork opportunities in the UK and potentially the Southern Ocean are available.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in physical sciences, with at least a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) or a relevant master’s degree. International candidates must meet the minimum English language requirements for their institution.

Funding is available for both Home/UK and international students, including 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 also available for Home applicants. Additional costs may apply for international students.

The application deadline is 12th January 2026. Interested candidates should contact Prof Benjamin Murray at [email protected] for informal enquiries, complete the online NZPS Application Form, and submit any required documents to [email protected] by the deadline. For further details, visit the NZPS DTP website.