The Southern Ocean plays a very important role in the global carbon-climate system. Recent estimates indicate that ~50% of all CO2 emitted by human activity (anthropogenic CO2) is stored in the Southern Ocean. The future trajectory of atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and thus the constraints on the minimum emissions reduction rates, thus depends critically on how the Southern Ocean carbon cycle will adjust to climate change.

The Southern Ocean Carbon and Climate Observatory (SOCCO) is a CSIR-led, multi-institutional South African initiative aiming to understand the link between climate and the carbon cycle in the Southern Ocean. The programme comprises a number of focus areas that aim to develop an integrated physical and biogeochemical understanding of the coupled carbon–climate system in the Southern Ocean through measurement and modelling.

SOCCO is advertising a number of studentships, in association with the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University, relating to various research areas within the multidisciplinary approach to understanding the Southern Ocean carbon – climate system.
novel field and modelling study. This is a key part of the negative feedback to both increasing anthropogenic CO2 emissions and potential increased outgassing through the upwelling of Central Deep Water (CDW). This work will be undertaken through the Southern Ocean Seasonal Cycle Experiment (SOSCEx 2012).

If this research interests you, please apply by sending a detailed copy of your CV and academic transcripts to [email protected].

Qualifications, skills and experience
Required:
For MSc: An honours or equivalent four year BSc degree (R80,000)
For PhD: A Masters BSc degree (R120,000)

Recommended:
• A background in oceanography and or chemistry is essential.
• Experience of analytical chemistry skills would be advantageous.
• Experience in experimental design and data processing techniques would be advantageous.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work in a cross-disciplinary project team environment.
• Highly self-motivated.

For more information please see the attached document.