[ES_JOBS_NET] PhD opportunity at University of Otago on modelling sea ice breakup due to ocean waves

[Fabien Montiel]

Hello,

We are looking for a PhD student to investigate the physical mechanisms 
governing sea ice breakup under wave action in the marginal ice zone. 
The project will involve developing a small-scale model of ocean waves 
breaking up a small number of ice floes with various shapes and sizes. 
The model will combine fracture mechanics and wave hydrodynamics. Field 
and laboratory data collected in recent experimental programmes will be 
used to validate the model. Outputs of the model will be processed to 
create a parametrised formulation describing wave-induced sea ice 
breakup that will be integrated in a coupled large scale ocean waves/sea 
ice model.

The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr Fabien Montiel 
(http://www.maths.otago.ac.nz/?people=fabien_montiel) as part of the 
3-year project "Breaking the ice: process-informed modelling of sea ice 
erosion due to ocean wave interactions" funded by a prestigious NZ 
Marsden grant, which involves collaborations with colleagues in the US 
and Europe. The student will be part of the vibrant NZ community of 
early-career polar scientists and will have many opportunities to 
interact with the broader international wave and sea ice communities 
during conferences and research visits.

The successful candidate will be funded by a competitive University of 
Otago PhD scholarship, which includes a 3-year stipend of NZ$ 27,500 per 
year (tax free and includes a fee waiver), research costs, and travel 
support to national and international conferences. Additional funding 
for travel will be available through the supervisor's Marsden grant.

The project is ideally suited for someone with interests in mathematical 
modelling, physical oceanography, polar science and climate modelling. A 
strong background in mathematics and physics, as well as computing 
skills, are essential. Prior knowledge in fluid mechanics, elasticity 
and/or water wave theory will be an advantage, but are not essential. 
Both New Zealand and international students are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in working with Fabien Montiel on this 
cutting-edge science project and being part of a very active 
international sea ice community, then please get in touch by sending 
your CV, transcripts of undergraduate and Masters studies, and the names 
and contact details of 2 referees.

Contact by email: fmontiel at maths.otago.ac.nz

-- 
Dr Fabien Montiel
Lecturer in Applied Mathematics

Department of Mathematics and Statistics
University of Otago
PO Box 56
Dunedin 9054
New Zealand
http://www.maths.otago.ac.nz/?people=fabien_montiel
ph: +64 3 479 7760