Better projections of ocean-driven ice loss from Antarctica.(Ref: OP19_52)

The Antarctic Ice Sheet is one of the largest contributors to global sea level rise and its contribution may increase sharply in the near future. It is therefore of considerable importance to quantify ongoing changes, to understand how these changes are driven by external factors, and to improve predictions of the future impacts on sea level.

One of the key processes that underlay present-day ice loss is the interaction of Antarctica’s outlet glaciers with the surrounding ocean. It is thought that increased ocean heat transport towards the continental margins has raised melt rates and triggered changes in ice flow that stretch far inland. To project how these changes will develop in the future, an adequate representation of ice-ocean interactions in forecast models is required. However, these processes are still poorly understood, and form one of the main focus points of present-day research on Climate and Climate Change in Antarctica.

In this project you will work with a world-leading group of ice-ocean modellers at Northumbria University to advance our understanding of these key processes. Training will be offered in glaciology, oceanography and numerical modelling. You will set up and run state-of-the-art ice-flow models (Úa) and ocean models (MITgcm) for key regions in Antarctica, using high performance computing facilities. You will learn to optimise model performance from calibration techniques and observational data analysis. Your results will highlight model shortcomings and inform future model development, with the overall aim to provide improved projections of Antarctic mass loss over the next decades to centuries. You will be encouraged to participate in UK and international conferences to discuss with colleagues and to promote your research.
Key Research Gaps and Questions:
How does the ocean drive ice loss in Antarctica?

How can forecast models be improved to better represent ocean forcing?

How will Antarctica’s contribution to sea level rise change over the next decades to centuries?
Prerequisites:
If you have strong numerical skills and a good background in physics, environmental sciences and programming, this project is well suited for you. An undergraduate or MSc degree in physics, mathematics or environmental sciences is essential.

For more information, please contact Jan De Rydt ([Email Address Removed]).