Noctiluca scintillans1 (known as “sea sparkle”) is a bioluminescent dionoflagellate, found commonly in UK coastal waters. It is sometimes associated with harmful red tides, which threaten local ecosystems and fisheries through eutrophication2. In recent years, coastal bioluminescence has attracted growing attention from the public, and in 2018 a public-initiated Facebook group (26,000 members) was established to share and record sightings (Figure 1). This information could help increase our understanding of when, where and why these blooms appear and even help predict future occurrences. Ultimately, further knowledge of these dinoflagellates will lead to an increased understanding of costal marine ecosystems in Wales and how these are likely to change in response to global warming.
Project Aims and Methods
This project aims to study, model and predict the occurrence of bioluminescent blooms caused by the marine dinoflagellate, N. scintillans around the Welsh coast. The following list includes initial objectives and methodologies for this studentship, but there will be flexibility depending on the interests of the candidate.
1) Work with Citizen Science Groups (Bioluminescent Plankton Watch Wales Facebook group) to collate information on sightings of bioluminescent blooms and data from coastal environmental monitoring systems. We will model3 this data mathematically to look for possible predictors for the occurrence of blooms at key locations around the Welsh coast and predict future occurrences under a range of environmental factors. Because the work has a citizen science element work will adhere to European Citizen Science Association principles of participatory science.
2) Verify this model using satellite imagery via NEODAAS and S-3 EUROHAB, in collaboration with Plymouth Marine Laboratory. Images will be scrutinized for the presence of offshore red tides4 (see Figure 2) and bioluminescent signatures5 (when possible using DSPM satellites).
3) Hydro-environmental models, developed at the School of Engineering6-8, will be revised to to simulate the movement of red tides at key sites. This will be based on availability of nutrients and environmental characteristics (such as flow velocity and solar radiation), literature and environmental monitoring data (Objective 1). The model predictions will be validated against environmental monitoring, citizen science (Objective 1) and satellite data (Objective 2).
4) Sample coastal bioluminescent blooms at key locations to identify the main organism(s) present through morphological and molecular (16S and 18S rRNA sequencing) methods. Cultures of N. scintillans will be established in the laboratory9 to investigate the impact of environmental stimuli on light output.
5) Produce an outreach activity or exhibition on bioluminescence and its uses in science and nature. This will provide an opportunity to feedback to the public on their input into the citizen science data collection (Objective 1) and showcase the outcome of their contribution at high profile events (e.g. Cheltenham Science Festival, Cardiff Science Festival and Green Man).
Candidate requirements
Candidates should have a strong background in biological sciences, particularly ecology, zoology or microbiology and should be familiar with in vitro experimentation and/or have fieldwork experience. Mathematical modelling experience is an advantage but not essential as full training will be given. A valid UK driving licence would also be advantageous for fieldwork activities.
Candidates must meet the Cardiff University PhD entry requirements - click on 'Institution Website' for details.
Project partners
This project provides an opportunity to be part of a new and exciting multidisciplinary collaboration between Ecologists, Microbiologists, Engineers and Earth Scientists at Cardiff University and PML as well as citizen science groups. This will provide the candidate with unique experience, supported by innovative training and integration into the GW4+ community. Collectively, this will equip the student with the necessary skills and expertise from which to launch their future careers.
Training
The student will be embedded within the Microbiomes, Microbes and Informatics Group at BIOSI, where they will receive peer support, mentorship and access to world-class analytical facilities and training (e.g. the Systems Biology and the MSc Global Ecology and Conservation modules). External training will include a Science Communication Masterclass. There will also be short placements at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory, fieldwork around the Welsh coast and Tobago, and international conference attendance and presentation.
How to Apply
The start date of this studentship is October 2022. To submit a formal application via Cardiff University’s online application service, click the 'Institution Website' button on this advert; in the ‘Apply’ box at the top-right of the page, select Qualification (Doctor of Philosophy), Mode of Study (Full Time) and Start Date (October 2022). This will take you to the application portal.
Candidates must submit the following:
• Supporting statement
• CV
• Qualification certificates
• Proof of English language (if applicable)
In the research proposal section of the application, specify the project title and supervisors of the project. In the funding section, select “I will be applying for a scholarship/grant” and specify advertised funding from NERC GW4. If you are applying for more than one Cardiff University project, please note this in the research proposal section as the form only allows you to enter one title.
The application deadline is Monday 10 January 2022 at 2359 GMT. Interviews will take place from 23rd February to 9 March 2022. For more information about the NERC GW4+ Doctoral Training Partnership please visit https://www.nercgw4plus.ac.uk.
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