Mid-Atlantic Ridge seascapes: Tools to understand deepsea connectivity
Abstract
The Deep-sea, which comprises almost all the oceans volume (90%) is considered the largest ecosystem on earth. However is also one of the least known. Marine organisms show a strong habitat selection. Dynamic water mass properties affect the distribution of species adults, juveniles, eggs and larvae that inhabiting the three spatial dimensions of the ocean. However to date there is no full understanding of the main drivers of their distribution.
The marine environment, the global ocean may be viewed as a mosaic of distinct seascapes, composed of unique combinations of physicochemical forcing and biological responses and/or feedbacks.
With this PhD we wish to go beneath the surface and understand, on a regional scale, how the seascapes can influence the water column at depth and ultimately the deep-sea benthos. The major objective is to understand how the deep-sea species are using the seascapes to move in the ocean at the different life stages, and performing different ecological function (dispersal, migration and trophic connectivity)..
The Mid Atlantic Ridge near the Azores archipelago it is the perfect laboratory to study this landscapes. It is recognized for its biodiversity and presence of different habitats including vulnerable ecosystems (seamounts, hydrothermal vents and mid ocean ridges).
By the project completion, we expect to validate the concept of using the multiple data to explain connectivity among populations of the different habitats, to improve governance in the area of marine resources and spatial sustainable management.
Candidate’s Profile
We expect the PhD candidates to develop, implement and analyze circulation, particle dispersal and biogeochemical models for the Mid Atlantic Ridge area near the Azores archipelago.
We are searching for candidates on the field of physics /mathematics/engineers with interest in marine ecology, or marine ecologists that have mathematical and quantitative skills.
Candidates should hold a master’s degree or equivalent academic level in physics, biology, mathematics, engineering, ecology or similar areas.
Shall be fluent English, have good communication skills and preferentially with experience with a programming language (Fortran, MatLab, etc).
Name(s) of supervisor(s)
Ana Colaço e Manuela Juliano
Identification of PhD Program
PhD Programme in Sciences of the Sea, University of the Azores, Portugal, Universidade dos Açores | (uac.pt)
Notice of the call (english version)
Notice of the call ( portuguese version)
We are no longer accepting applications for this scholarship. Thank you.