Listening to the Oceans: Autonomous Acoustic Imaging of Oceanic Structure

Main Supervisor: Dr. Katy Sheen, Penryn Campus, University of Exeter

Project Description:

Seismic oceanography is a novel and unique method of acoustically mapping out the temperature and salinity structure of the ocean. However, due to the requirement for large-scale, expensive shipboard equipment and specialist processing software and expertise, alongside a lack of coincident seismic and oceanographic field studies, seismic oceanography has remained a niche in the UK research environment. To address these issues, a new observational approach is required.

The purpose of this PhD project will be to identify the potential of an acoustic reflection system to map out oceanic structure, suitable for integration onto autonomous vehicles. This project is an exciting new area of ocean monitoring and will combine expertise from ocean scientists, seismologists and autonomous instrumentation specialists.

The student goals will be three fold:

• To collect, process and interpret traditional oceanic seismic data. The candidate will also likely participate in a seismic research cruise to the Southern Atlantic Ocean scheduled for 2018

• To investigate the use of hydrophones and turbulence probes mounted on gliders alongside a seismic survey

• To carry out feasibility studies for developing a new active acoustic reflection system to image oceanic structure, that can be mounted on autonomous vehicles

The NEXUSS CDT provides state-of-the-art, highly experiential training in the application and development of cutting-edge Smart and Autonomous Observing Systems for the environmental sciences, alongside comprehensive personal and professional development. There will be extensive opportunities for students to expand their multi-disciplinary outlook through interactions with a wide network of academic, research and industrial / government / policy partners. Specific training will include:

• Gain knowledge of physical ocean processes

• Seismic processing using industry based Omega software

• Numerical modelling of ocean acoustic reflectivity

• Autonomous ocean glider data processing, quality control, and analysis techniques

• Presentation of research at international conferences and workshops

This project will suit candidates with a background in Earth Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Geophysics, Oceanography or Marine Science

The closing date for applications is midnight on 16th January 2017. Interviews will be held on the University of Exeter, Penryn Campus in Cornwall on the week commencing 20th February 2017.

For more information and to apply please go to:http://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/?id=2476

If you have any general enquiries about the application process please email [Email Address Removed] or phone +44 (0) 1392 725854/723706 Project-specific queries should be directed to the main supervisor, Katy Sheen [Email Address Removed]