Susie Wood

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.