Disentangling the effects of climate change on plant-microbe interactions in salt marsh ecosystems

Scientific background:

Salt marshes are among the most productive systems on Earth. They act as large carbon sinks, and are critical to mitigating against CO2 emissions. The plant-microbial communities in these environments are fundamental to carbon cycling, influencing carbon storage and greenhouse gas flux, whilst being resilient to harsh environments (i.e. periods of drought/submergence in salt waters). They are also under threat from coastal land reclamation, limited sediment supply, increased nutrient/eutrophication, and sea level rise. Currently, there is a lack of knowledge on the interplay between the plant-microbial processes in relation to the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients and how these respond in a changing climate. This project aims to better understand the functional plant-microbial interactions involved in carbon cycling in salt marsh ecosystems in relation to plant diversity, physiology and ecosystem function under a changing climate (e.g. elevated CO2, temperature, increased periods of drought). 

Research methodology:

The postgraduate researcher will use a combination of climate-controlled lab-scale mesocosms (via the new STEPS Facility) alongside a seasonal field campaign. You will utilise state-of-the-art molecular, biogeochemical and plant physiological techniques to characterise, quantify plant physiological responses, carbon dynamics, across gradients from the upper intertidal to sub-littoral salt marsh zones, including vegetated and unvegetated sediments. The project will focus on salt marshes along the East Anglian coastline, benefitting from existing datasets, and strong relationships between supervisors and stakeholders (Conservation organisations, Government Agencies, Local Authorities). Fieldwork will include spatial and temporal sediment sampling, for microbial characterisation and plant physiological measurements and related to gas flux data, carbon stock and associated environmental parameters (e.g. nutrient concentrations).  

Training:

You will receive training in plant physiology, analytical chemistry, biogeochemistry, molecular microbial ecology and bioinformatics, and gain key fieldwork skills. You will be encouraged to present their research at scientific conferences for data dissemination, networking opportunities.

Acceptable first degree subjects: Environmental Science, Plant Science, Microbiology, Ecology or Biological Science related subject.

To apply, email a covering letter and CV to ariesapp@essex.ac.uk

For more information, please see: https://www.aries-dtp.ac.uk/studentships/cavanagh/

ARIES is awaiting confirmation of funding under the BBSRC-NERC DLA award scheme, which is expected shortly. Funding for this studentship is subject to this confirmation and UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded ARIES studentship of fees, maintenance stipend (£19,237 p.a. for 2024/25) and research costs.

A limited number of ARIES studentships are available to International applicants. Please note however that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK.

ARIES is committed to equality, diversity, widening participation and inclusion in all areas of its operation. We encourage applications from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, and transgender status. Projects have been developed with consideration of a safe, inclusive, and appropriate research and fieldwork environment. Academic qualifications are considered alongside non-academic experience, with equal weighting given to experience and potential.

For further information, please visit www.aries-dtp.ac.uk