The University of Southampton’s School of Ocean and Earth Science is recruiting a Research Fellow in Palaeoceanography and Earth System Modelling. This is a part of the ERC-funded project “Determining the drivers of extinction across space and time.” This position operates under the supervision of Dr. Richard Stockey and contributes to a broader research effort examining Earth system evolution and extinction dynamics through deep time.
Within this role, the successful candidate develops and applies the cGENIE Earth system model across multiple research strands. The work focuses on reconstructing and simulating 3D ocean biogeochemistry, spanning the last ~800,000 years as well as the Phanerozoic, thereby capturing both recent and long-term Earth system variability.
Collaboration forms an essential part of the position, particularly with the University of Oxford under the leadership of Prof. Erin Saupe. This partnership integrates Earth system model outputs with geochemical proxy data and orbital forcing frameworks to strengthen interpretations of past ocean and climate behaviour.
This is a 15-month fixed-term appointment based at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton. The role requires prior experience in intermediate-complexity Earth system modelling, alongside the ability to work independently within established research programmes and contribute to ongoing scientific publications.
Position Overview
- Position: Research Fellow (Earth System Modelling)
- Institution: University of Southampton, United Kingdom
- Department: Palaeoceanography & Palaeoclimate
- Faculty: School of Ocean and Earth Science
- Research Group: ERC “Determining the drivers of extinction across space and time”
- Supervisor: Dr. Richard Stockey
- Collaborating Team: Prof. Erin Saupe (University of Oxford)
- Location: National Oceanography Centre Southampton, UK
- Duration: 15 months (fixed-term)
- Start Date: Not specified
- Funding: £36,636 – £43,482 per annum (gross salary)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD or near completion in a relevant Earth science discipline
Research Area:
- Palaeoceanography
- Earth System Modelling
- Ocean biogeochemistry
- Palaeoclimate reconstruction
- Geochemical proxy integration
Related Academic Opportunities
- Academic Positions in Palaeoceanography
- Research jobs in Palaeoclimate
- Earth Sciences Research and Academic jobs
- Academic opportunities in the UK for international scholars
Eligibility / Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- PhD or near completion in Earth System Science or related field
- Experience with intermediate-complexity Earth system models
- Knowledge of ocean biogeochemistry and climate system evolution
- Ability to work with geochemical proxy datasets
- Experience with astronomical/orbital forcing applications
- Capacity to conduct independent research within structured projects
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cGENIE or similar Earth system models
- Track record of scientific publications in relevant areas
- Experience linking model outputs with palaeoclimate data
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and refine the cGENIE Earth system model
- Construct 3D reconstructions of ocean biogeochemistry
- Simulate Earth system evolution across deep time intervals
- Integrate geochemical proxy data into modelling frameworks
- Apply orbital forcing in Earth system experiments
- Contribute to scientific publications and collaborative outputs
Application Process
Applicants submit their materials through the University of Southampton recruitment system using the official vacancy reference number 3411626HN. The selection process evaluates research experience, modelling expertise, and alignment with project objectives.
Required documents
- CV
- Cover letter/research statement
- List of publications
- Academic transcripts (if requested)
- References
Position Highlights
This position brings together research in palaeoceanography, Earth system modelling, geochemical proxy analysis, and deep-time climate reconstruction. The role contributes to model development and scientific research within an ERC-funded programme.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Open now
- Application Deadline: 03 June 2026, 11:59 pm (UK time)
- Interview Period: To be confirmed
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Apply via the University of Southampton’s official recruitment portal using reference 3411626HN.
⏳ Applications close strictly at 11:59 pm UK time on 03 June 2026.
The University of Southampton is a research-intensive institution in the United Kingdom with a strong focus on science, engineering, and environmental research. It is part of the Russell Group of leading UK universities and is recognised for its contributions to oceanography, climate science, and Earth system research. The university maintains close collaboration with national and international research organisations, supporting interdisciplinary work across marine and Earth sciences.
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