PhD on Seal Ecology
Applications are invited for a four-year PhD project at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences (BEES) and the MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork, supervised by Dr Mark Jessopp, Dr Sam Cox and Prof. Emer Rogan.
The PhD studentship is funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of research to support robust conservation measures in Ireland’s newest and largest National Park, Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, established in April 2024.
School: School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science and MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute
College: School of Science, Engineering and Food Science
Contract Type: Fixed Term Whole-Time
Job Type: Research
PhD project
The PhD project is seeking to establish/update detailed baseline data on seal species to support robust conservation management at Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarra. Within the park, the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) occurs in important numbers and breeds within the park. Grey seals are protected under Irish and European legislation (i.e. the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012, and the EC Habitats Directive and associated Statutory Instruments). As they are listed under Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive, Special Areas of Conservation are required to protect seal species and maintain populations at favourable conservation status. In line with Ireland’s commitments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, and as part of Ireland’s obligations under the EU Directives, there is a requirement for research into grey seal distribution, habitat requirements and population status, as well as threats and pressures acting on the species. Specifically, this PhD will (1) Determine seasonal seal abundance across the islands within the national park; (2) Derive a breeding population estimate for grey seals; (3) Investigate factors influencing seal haulout behaviour at fine temporal scales; (4) Quantify consumption of prey species by seals in the area. The objectives will be achieved using a combination of boat and drone surveys, timelapse camera monitoring, diet sampling and statistical modelling.
Funding
The PhD position is funded for four years. It includes a tax-free stipend of €25,000 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate. Non-EU applicants may be required to pay additional non-EU fees.
Eligibility criteria
Essential:
- A 1.1 or 2.1 BSc honours degree (or equivalent) in biology, zoology, ecology, conservation or related subject.
- A good understanding of or strong interest in seal ecology.
- A strong understanding of experimental design, data analysis and statistics.
- Willingness to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Experience of conducting zoological field work.
- Evidence of having completed a research project.
- Full, clean driving licence.
Desirable:
- MSc in a relevant subject.
- Experience in analysing remote sensing imagery.
To Apply
Please send your application to Dr Mark Jessopp (ei.ccu@ppossej.m) with “Seal PhD application” in the subject line of the email. The deadline is 31st Jan 2025.
Please attach a single PDF document that contains:
- A cover letter of 1 to 2 pages: Your letter should clearly set out your suitability and motivation for this PhD with reference to your past relevant experience and achievements.
- A CV that includes your relevant experience, undergraduate results, any relevant publications (if applicable) and contact information for two academic referees.
Please contact Dr Mark Jessopp (ei.ccu@ppossej.m ) or Prof. Emer Rogan (ei.ccu@nagor.e) if you have any questions about the position.
Closing Date for Applications: 31 Jan 2025.
More information is available here.
