About the Program
The University of Exeter invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Earth Observation and Fire Carbon Modelling titled “Using Earth Observation to model fire carbon emissions over the tropics” at the Department of Geography. This doctoral position focuses on modelling the impact of fires on the tropical carbon cycle and atmospheric composition, addressing key challenges in understanding carbon fluxes in South America and Africa. The project will be supervised by Professor Stephen Sitch, Professor Lina Mercado, Professor Luiz Aragão, Dr Thais Rosan, Dr Dom Fawcett, and Professor Amos Tai and aligns with the research theme of the CLARiTy Project. The research duration is 3–4 years and is based in Exeter, UK, with an expected start in October 2026. The PhD offers interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced research training, international networking, and professional development in Earth System Sciences, Remote Sensing, and Climate Modelling.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Exeter
- Department/Faculty: Department of Geography
- Supervisor: Professor Stephen Sitch, Professor Lina Mercado, Professor Luiz Aragão, Dr Thais Rosan, Dr Dom Fawcett, Professor Amos Tai
- Location: Exeter, United Kingdom
- Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
- Duration: 3–4 years
- Funding: Full tuition fees + £20,780 annual tax-free stipend
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s
Research Focus/Area:
- Earth Observation
- Fire Carbon Emissions
- Tropical Ecosystem Carbon Cycling
- Atmospheric Composition
- Remote Sensing and Climate Modelling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or equivalent, in Mathematics, Earth System Sciences, Natural Sciences, Remote Sensing, or related fields
- Strong numerical, analytical, and coding skills
- English proficiency if not a native speaker
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior research experience in Earth Observation, climate modelling, or ecosystem science
- Familiarity with geospatial analysis, Python, or R
- Strong academic record demonstrating analytical and computational skills
Key Features of the Program
- Interdisciplinary research within Earth System Sciences and Climate Science
- International collaboration with WSL Switzerland and CUHK, Hong Kong
- Conference and travel funding
- Access to high-performance computing resources for modelling and analysis
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Apply via the University of Exeter application portal
- Submit CV, letter of application, transcripts, two academic references, and English proficiency proof (if applicable)
Required Documents:
- CV
- Cover Letter detailing academic interests, prior research experience, and fit to the project
- Academic transcripts
- Two academic references
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 16 January 2026
- Interviews: 6–13 February 2026 (virtual)
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Exeter
- Official Notification: CLARiTy Project
- Application Portal: Apply Here
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