PhD in School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences and the MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute

Job title:

PhD in School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences and the MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute

Company:

University College Cork

Job description

See advert for detailsFully funded four-year PhD project in Seal EcologyApplications are invited for a four-year PhD project at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences (BEES) and the MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork, supervised by Dr Mark Jessopp, Dr Sam Cox and Prof. Emer Rogan.The PhD studentship is funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of research to support robust conservation measures in Ireland’s newest and largest National Park, Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, established in April 2024.The PhD projectThe PhD project is seeking to establish/update detailed baseline data on seal species to support robust conservation management at Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarra. Within the park, the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) occurs in important numbers and breeds within the park. Grey seals are protected under Irish and European legislation (i.e. the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012, and the EC Habitats Directive and associated Statutory Instruments). As they are listed under Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive, Special Areas of Conservation are required to protect seal species and maintain populations at favourable conservation status. In line with Ireland’s commitments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, and as part of Ireland’s obligations under the EU Directives, there is a requirement for research into grey seal distribution, habitat requirements and population status, as well as threats and pressures acting on the species. Specifically, this PhD will (1) Determine seasonal seal abundance across the islands within the national park; (2) Derive a breeding population estimate for grey seals; (3) Investigate factors influencing seal haulout behaviour at fine temporal scales; (4) Quantify consumption of prey species by seals in the area. The objectives will be achieved using a combination of boat and drone surveys, timelapse camera monitoring, diet sampling and statistical modelling.FundingThe PhD position is funded for four years. It includes a tax-free stipend of €25,000 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate. Non-EU applicants may be required to pay additional non-EU fees.Start date1 March 2025Eligibility criteriaEssential:

• A 1.1 or 2.1 BSc honours degree (or equivalent) in biology, zoology, ecology, conservation or related subject.
• A good understanding of or strong interest in seal ecology.
• A strong understanding of experimental design, data analysis and statistics.
• Willingness to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Experience of conducting zoological field work.
• Evidence of having completed a research project.
• Full, clean driving licence.

Desirable:

• MSc in a relevant subject.
• Experience in analysing remote sensing imagery.

Expected salary

Location

Cork

Job date

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 23:56:53 GMT

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