Exploring the effects of anthropogenic changes on deep-sea abyssal plain and seamount benthic ecosystems in the North Atlantic using in-situ experimentation and modelling
The PhD will be embedded within the EC Ocean SOS project and measure benthic C-demand at the abyssal seafloor and on seamounts using benthic respirometer landers, as well as microprofilers, and Aquatic Eddy Covariance systems. To document C flow through the benthos, stable isotope pulse-chase experiments will be undertaken in-situ. Biodiversity and C-flow to seafloor scavengers will be documented using baited camera landers and baited trap systems, specifically designed to be deployed to the relatively flat abyssal plain, as well as on more rugged terrain found on seamounts. Combining the aforementioned observations as well as observations on C-fluxes from sediment trap moorings will allow us to create novel linear inverse models (LIMs) of C-flows between the pelagic and benthic zones representing NACES. Ultimately, these LIMs will be forced by inputs from short-, medium-, and long-term scenarios of climate change and fisheries pressure (e.g., changes in C-input) to see how benthic ecosystem functions are maintained or altered in a anthropogenically-stressed ocean.
Closing Date for Applications: Friday 22nd May 2026
Many PhDs come with full studentships, which cover fees and living expenses, so that students can focus on their research and be expected to complete their studies in 3 or 3.5 years.
Self-funded students will require to have approximately £20,000* per year for living expenses to be in line with RCUK doctoral stipends on top of the fees.
For UHI PhD projects, click here for the current fees.*
*FEES AND COSTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE ANNUALLY
Most of our PhD projects are registered through the University of the Highlands and Islands, and this page outlines the application procedure for UHI PhDs. Please note that we have several other doctoral training partnerships - most notably with the University of Edinburgh, and applications to these programmes follow procedures by other universities. Information regarding these can be found on the individual project adverts.
We adhere strictly to equality and diversity policies during all phases of recruitment so that we find the most talented and motivated students to join us.
Eligibility
To be eligible to study for a PhD at SAMS UHI, who need to possess - in a relevant discipline and from a reputable institution:
- A Master's qualification and / or
- A Bachelor degree with first class or upper second class honours and / or
- Another qualification or substantial experience that demonstrates your academic competence to complete doctoral training successfully (to be approved by the UHI Research Degrees Committee on the recommendation of the SAMS Director).
- Additionally, international students whose first language is not English and who do not hold a prior degree obtained in English must hold an IELTS qualification with a score of 6 or over in every section with a minimum score of 6.5 overall (6+ in writing), gained within two years prior to your registration date.
How to Apply
Most importantly you need to have identified an approved PhD project (including a Director of Studies / supervisory team) that you are unquestionably excited by. This can be a ready made project advertised on these pages OR a proposal you have developed with a SAMS supervisor and have funding for.
If you wish to apply for an advertised studentship you will find this under the ‘Funded Projects’ tab. Please complete the application form provided in the advertisement.
Return your completed application to the email stated on the form, accompanied by your cv and any supporting documentation listed below. Please submit your whole application as one pdf. Your referees should use the reference form provided and also return it to the email stated on the application form.
Supporting Documentation Required
The following documents should be emailed with your application and CV as one pdf file:
- Copies of all official qualification certificates and transcripts. If your official certificates/transcripts are not in English, they must be accompanied by a full certified translation provided by a professional translator/translation company.
- If English is not your native language, an English language test certificate (IELTS or equivalent), gained within the past two years;
- If you are not a UK national, a copy of the photo page of your passport. Also include any pages which indicate a right of abode in the UK;
- 2 academic references. If references are not available at the time of submission, they can be excluded from the single pdf file, however applicants are responsible for ensuring their referees submit the references to the email given on the application form by the deadline.
- If you wish to apply for more than one project, please submit separate applications.
Most PhD students will want to meet their potential supervisors to discuss the project, their personal suitability and to ascertain that they will be able to work together for a prolonged period of time.
For administrative issues, your first and main point of contact is the Postgraduate Academic Support Administrator who can be contacted by email to: phd@sams.ac.uk
The SAMS graduate school is convened by marine deep-sea ecologist and microplastic researcher, Professor Bhavani Narayanaswamy:
E: Bhavani.Narayanaswamy@sams.ac.uk T: +44 (0) 1631 559 305 (direct)