Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
The Southern Ocean (SO), dominated by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), plays a major role in regulating the transport of heat between the lower latitudes and Antarctica and vertical exchanges in the ocean. The ACC is characterized by multiple fronts and intense eddy dynamics, particularly in regions where the current interacts with topographic features. These hotspot regions significantly contribute to the transfer of heat and carbon into and across the ACC. While in-situ observations are challenging and remain sparse in the SO, studies on the dynamics of eddies and their role in redistributing energy and tracers widely rely on sea surface height (SSH) data from 30-year satellite altimetry records. However, the spatial resolution of this long record is coarse and does not fully capture the fine-scale structure of eddies. Their role in heat and carbon transfer in the ocean is still an open research question.
Launched in 2022, the SWOT (Surface Water and Ocean Topography) satellite brings a much higher resolution view of this eddy dynamics, filling the gap toward smaller scales by providing an unprecedented high-resolution view of the ocean dynamics. SWOT is a game-changer in its ability to capture sharper currents and detailed oceanic features, and it will help to understand better the role of smaller-scale features in exchanging and redistributing heat in the ocean, opening new possibilities for better understanding heat and carbon transfers in a changing climate.
This project will investigate the dynamics of the ACC over the first two years of the SWOT satellite record and compare it to the previous 30-year low-resolution satellite altimetry record. The objectives are to update and improve the ACC eddy and frontal dynamics monitoring in view of the novel SWOT datasets and existing oceanography theories and models. The guiding goals are identifying, understanding, and monitoring SO change in a circumpolar assessment.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
- Candidates are expected to have a strong background in quantitative analysis, mathematics and physics for QMS application
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- M.Sc or equivalent in Physical Oceanography
- Proficiency in scientific programming and large dataset management
- Excellent written and oral English skills
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Excellent programming skills in Python
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Yann-Treden Tranchant to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
