About the Position
The University of Plymouth is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD in Marine Science. This opportunity focuses on developing next-generation sensors to monitor calcium and magnesium dynamics in coastal marine environments. Beginning in October 2026, the project is led by Dr Uwe Balthasar with additional supervision from Professor Simon Ussher and Dr Simon Whelan. The research centres on designing innovative screen-printed ion-selective electrodes capable of generating real-time Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ data, offering critical insight into how environmental change influences marine calcifying organisms. Working within the Sensor Technologies Research Group, the successful candidate will receive interdisciplinary training in chemical sensor fabrication, electrochemical analysis and coastal fieldwork in Plymouth Sound. This PhD aligns closely with the university’s strengths in marine science, geochemistry and environmental monitoring.
Position/Job Details
- Position: PhD Studentship
- Institution: University of Plymouth
- Department: Environmental Sciences / Geological Sciences
- Research Field: Marine Geochemistry, Environmental Monitoring
- Location: Plymouth, United Kingdom
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fully Funded PhD
- Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary Range: £20,780 per year (2025–26 rate; following UKRI rates thereafter)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Degree
Research Area
- Calcium and magnesium dynamics in marine ecosystems
- Marine environmental chemistry
- Development of screen-printed ion-selective electrodes
- Real-time monitoring of seawater chemistry
- Coastal biogeochemical processes across tidal to seasonal scales
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- First or upper second class degree in Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Chemistry or related field
- IELTS 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) if English is not the first language
Preferred Qualifications:
- Relevant Master’s degree
- Experience in programming
- Strong laboratory and analytical skills
- Interest in chemical sensing and marine environmental applications
Key Responsibilities
- Design and fabricate screen-printed Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ ion-selective electrodes
- Validate sensor performance through controlled laboratory testing
- Conduct fieldwork in Plymouth Sound to monitor real-time ion fluctuations
- Analyse electrochemical data and environmental patterns
- Engage in interdisciplinary training in microscopy, spectroscopy and data interpretation
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your application through the University of Plymouth online portal. Ensure all required supporting documents are uploaded. Candidates may contact the supervisory team for informal enquiries.
Required Documents:
- Application form
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- References
- English language certificate (if applicable)
- Supporting documents listed on the University of Plymouth website
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 11 November 2025
- Deadline: 7 January 2026
- Interview Date: After the application deadline (shortlisted candidates will be contacted)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Plymouth
- Official Notification Link: click here
- Apply Now: click here
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