[Fully-funded ARIES studentship covering tuition fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26; 2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs for 3.5 years.]

This fully-funded PhD studentship at the University of Plymouth offers an exciting opportunity to join the Sensor Technologies Research Group (STRG) and contribute to the development of next-generation sensors for tracking calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) in marine ecosystems. The project addresses critical gaps in our understanding of how these ions fluctuate in coastal seawater, which is essential for predicting the impacts of ocean warming and acidification on marine calcifying organisms. Recent global surveys have revealed significant variability in coastal waters, but current data are limited to isolated measurements, and real-time monitoring capabilities remain inadequate.

As a PhD student, you will develop and validate innovative screen-printed ion-specific electrodes for continuous, real-time monitoring of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ fluctuations. The research will involve laboratory validation using established protocols and in-house fabrication facilities for screen-printed electronics, followed by field testing in Plymouth Sound to capture ionic fluctuations over multiple tidal cycles. You will receive comprehensive training in screen-printing techniques for conductive materials, chemical functionalization for sensor conversion, electrochemical data analysis, electrode characterization using scanning electron microscopy and spectroscopic methods, and specialized instruction in Mg/Ca data interpretation and environmental applications.

The ideal candidate will have strong laboratory and analytical skills, a passion for applying chemical knowledge to environmental challenges, and preferably some programming experience. Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in Earth, Environmental, Biological Science, Chemistry, or a relevant Masters qualification. Non-native English speakers must meet the minimum language requirements (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each component).

The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes a fully-funded ARIES studentship covering tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26; 2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs. The project is supervised by Dr Uwe Balthasar (DoS), Professor Simon Ussher, and Dr Simon Whelan. For informal discussions about the project, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Uwe Balthasar at [email protected].

Applications should be submitted via the University of Plymouth's online portal by 7 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview after the deadline. Please ensure you upload all required supporting documents with your application. For further details on the admissions process, visit the University's research degree application webpage.