PhD in Benthic Marine Cyanobacterial Blooms and Toxin Production Cawthron Institute in New Zealand

PhD opportunity at the Cawthron Institute in collaboration with Lincoln University for a project on benthic marine cyanobacterial blooms and toxin production.

The research will investigate the ecology, environmental drivers, persistence, detachment, and toxin dynamics of benthic cyanobacterial blooms, with a focus on Waiheke Island and the wider Auckland region. The project combines field surveys and laboratory experiments, and is suited to candidates interested in marine ecology, algal ecology, environmental science, molecular techniques, chemical analysis, and quantitative data analysis.

The student will be primarily based at the Cawthron Institute in Nelson, New Zealand, with supervision from Dr Laura Biessy, Dr Kirsty Smith, and Prof. Susie Wood, and close links to Auckland Council.

Funding includes a NZ$35,000 per annum stipend plus full tuition fees. International applicants with a strong academic record are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility highlights: a Bachelor (Honours) degree or Master’s degree in a relevant field, strong English proficiency, excellent communication skills, ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams, and meeting Lincoln University PhD entry requirements.

Application deadline: 16 August 2026 at 5:00 pm NZT. Expected start date: 1 December 2026.

Apply through the Cawthron Careers page and submit a statement of skills/research interests/motivation, CV, academic transcripts, and two academic referees.