Understanding controls on oxygen deficits in UK waters using a community ecosystem model and isotopic tools

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In UK waters, ongoing assessments have identified significant downward trends in c(O2) in the northern and southern North Sea and the English Channel. However, the assessments also identified significant gaps in the data and monitoring practices, as well as a lack of understanding of how the interactions between physical, biological and climatological processes control c(O2). This project aims at narrowing these gaps in understanding using a combination of i) data for c(O2) on the UK Shelf; ii) model data generated in the NERC-Defra Shelf Seas Biogeochemistry (SSB) Programme (PML Grant Number NE/K001876/1); and iii) a novel combination of oxygen isotope data and model simulations.In Phase 1 of the project, the student will validate relevant model runs with existing data using basic univariate and multivariate statistical techniques. They will then analyse the model results for historic and future trends in c(O2) under different management scenarios, and identify the dominant driving mechanisms behind changes in c(O2). Working closely with Cefas, the student will develop analysis software that will be easily adaptable for other OSPAR/MSFD indicators. This will lead to the identification of risk areas that could be targeted for improved monitoring and/or management. During this phase of the project the student will participate in a research cruise aboard the RV Cefas Endeavour. The choice of cruise will be guided by early results from the study, and samples for c(O2) and O2 isotopologues taken. In Phase 2, the student will implement an oxygen isotope fractionation scheme in the model, which will allow results to be compared with the new and archived O2 isotopologue data. The student will spend three months at UEA analysing the isotope data. The student will then run 1D model simulations and assess the use of oxygen isotopes for diagnosing the relative contribution of different biological populations to overall O2 consumption. During the project the student will write high impact scientific papers and a PhD thesis.As a member of the EnvEast DTP, the student will attend compulsory residential and in-house events (e.g. the EnvEast Summer School), which include specific Personal and Professional Development (PPD) modules tailored to the student's background, research and employment aspirations. The progressive training program is designed to develop advanced scientific skills for the next generation of research leaders as well as generic management and communication skills to increase employability across a range of professions. PPD modules include Project management; Time management; Critical thinking; Latex; Scientific writing; Effective scientific presentations; Thesis writing; Viva preparation; and Interview skills.The student will attend advanced taught modules and training events to develop specific skills. Courses will be selected from the list of NERC Advanced Training Short Courses, where previous courses include "Environmental Statistics and Data analytics training", "Numerical Earth Science Modelling", and "Understanding and Communicating Environmental Risk and Uncertainty".