Ice sheet history in East Antarctica – how does topography affect the rate of past and future ice loss?

A PhD project is available at the University of Canberra studying the influence of topography on the evolution of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet. This project will focus on the areas underlain by large subglacial basins, and measure whether or not these basins produced differences in the rate of ice loss during previous periods of climate warming and sea level rise.

Ice free areas near the margin of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet preserve a wealth of paleoclimate and paleoenvironmental records. Ice sheet models require former ice histories for model validation and sensitivity analysis, in order to accurately project future ice sheet behaviour. Our current understanding of how East Antarctic Ice Sheet responds to climate change is poorly constrained, particularly in potentially dynamic areas underlain by large, deep subglacial basins.

In this project we will collect new field data to measure the response of the ice sheet to the last 100,000 years of climate and sea level fluctuations at key locations along the present day ice margin. This field data will be linked to ice sheet models and improve projections of sea level rise in the future. There is scope to link with concurrent efforts to improve models of earth rheology, and/or the evolution of biological communities in these key Antarctic habitats. The initial round of sample collection has been completed, and current collections are sufficient to guarantee project success. However, there is scope for further field programs in both current and future Antarctic seasons.

The project would suit a candidate with strengths or interests in the Cryosphere and Geomorphology/Quaternary geology. A background in modelling is optional, while knowledge of cosmogenic dating, while helpful is not crucial. Students would be supervised by Duanne White and colleagues at UTAS, depending on the final project details.

IMPORTANT POINTS:
1. This project and the PhD candidature will be administered through the University of Canberra. You will need to have completed a BSc and some subsequent form of research-focussed degree (an MSc, or in the Australian/New Zealand system, an Honours year) to be considered.

2. Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent residents would be eligible to apply for competitive funding for both a scholarship and fee-waiver (~$AUS 26k p.a. to live off, and no up-front fees).

3. If you are not an Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident, you will be liable for upfront fees, at a rate of approximately $AUS 20k p.a. Exceptional international candidates can apply for one of the University of Canberra awards that would support this cost, and also provide a $26k p/a scholarship as above.

If you are interested in applying, please send an email to Duanne White ([Email Address Removed]) and provide the following information:-
(i) an expression of interest, and some general background of your past experience, qualifications, and expertise relevant to this project
(ii) a copy of your CV
(iii) preferably, copies of all your academic transcripts (BSc and subsequent degrees) to demonstrate which specific subjects you have undertaken.