The past, present and future of the Great Barrier Reef: integrating sedimentology and ecology via modelling and machine learning

Coral reefs are marine biodiversity hotspots, occupying 0.1% of the world’s ocean surface but hosting 38% of marine species. Reefs around the world are currently being negatively impacted by a number of factors. How will they react to predicted climate and anthropogenic change? This project will create a numerical model of reef dynamics and incorporate both sedimentological and biological data using state-of-the-art numerical technology. We will then use this model to create accurate predictions of the impacts of future climate and anthropogenic change on reef dynamics. The model will be based on the current prototype of the Carst model: https://carst-model.github.io/

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to join a growing research team in York that uses numerical methods to tackle environmental problems. You should have a background in mathematics or computer science with a passion to develop geological and ecological knowledge or possibly a background in geosciences/ecology with a keen interest in developing skills in computer modelling and mathematics. There is the possibility of travelling to the Great Barrier Reef in the second year to collect data to verify the model with partners at the University of Sydney.

The research will be based in the Environment and Geography Department at the University of York, which offers an outstanding, dynamic and multidisciplinary environment in which to carry out PhD research. The ACCE DTP is committed to recruiting extraordinary future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those under-represented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills. The department has a comprehensive training and support programme to help develop you as a research scientist.

For more information on supervisor team see:
• https://envmodellinggroup.github.io/
• https://jonxhill.wordpress.com/
• https://www.york.ac.uk/biology/research/ecology-evolution/jon-w-pitchford/
• https://shefmeme.org/
• https://sydney.edu.au/science/people/jody.webster.php

Contact the lead supervisor ([Email Address Removed]) for more information.