Jeff Shima

PhD opportunity at Victoria University of Wellington (Te Herenga Waka), New Zealand, in the School of Biological Sciences with Prof Jeff Shima . The project asks how artificial light at night (ALAN) shapes coastal marine ecosystems . Research directions may include how different taxa respond to light wavelength, intensity, and depth; how artificial light changes predator-prey interactions; and how lighting design could reduce ecological side effects. The work is expected to combine fieldwork , laboratory experiments , and statistical modelling in R . This is a PhD opening for a motivated candidate with a strong interest in marine biology , marine sciences , behavioural ecology , and coastal food webs. Essential requirements include SCUBA diving experience in temperate cold-water settings and a current scientific diving qualification. Strong quantitative skills, independent research experience, and good science communication are also valued. Funding is via a Wellington Doctoral Scholarship application for the selected candidate. The scholarship currently provides NZ$32,000 per year plus tuition fees for up to three years and is open to domestic and international applicants. Applicants must meet the university’s PhD entry requirements and the scholarship is described as highly competitive. Application deadline for materials to Prof. Shima: 1 October 2026 . The selected candidate is then expected to submit the full scholarship application by 1 November 2026 .