PhD Studentship: Towards Near Real-time Quantification of Fossil Fuel Emissions

Overview

This full-time, fixed-term PhD studentship focuses on developing near real-time capabilities for top-down fossil fuel carbon dioxide quantification through synchronous changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide and oxygen measurements, alongside complementary tracers like Radon. The research involves disentangling atmospheric signals, investigating fossil fuel emissions ratios for the United Kingdom, working toward near real-time emissions reporting, and re-evaluating carbon sink partitioning and budget imbalances. The work is hosted by the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia and is conducted on site in the United Kingdom.

Who can apply

The position is designed for enthusiastic team players who possess strong numerical skills, self-motivation, and a keen interest in climate change and the carbon cycle. ARIES gives equal weighting to academic qualifications and non-academic experience, considering both experience and potential. Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community regardless of disability, gender, ethnicity, age, transgender status, and sexual orientation.

What you get

Successful candidates meeting UKRI eligibility criteria receive a fully-funded studentship covering fees, a maintenance stipend of £21,805 per annum for the 2026/27 academic year, and a research training and support grant. A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, for whom the registering university waives the difference between home and international fees. The program includes extensive one-to-one training in high-precision atmospheric measurements, programming languages such as R and Python, machine learning, conference presentation skills, and peer-reviewed paper writing. Participants also spend three to six months at the UK National Physical Laboratory for research-led training, with additional opportunities for a one to three month research visit in Wellington, New Zealand, and attendance at summer schools.

Requirements

Applicants must submit an application for the relevant project and complete a separate ARIES Equality and Diversity Form for each project application submitted. Funding does not cover relocation costs, UK living expenses, visa costs, or the health surcharge.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 16 December 2026.