Dear colleagues,

Applications are invited for a four-year PhD at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences (BEES) and the MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork, Ireland.

The PhD studentship is funded by the Irish National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of research to support robust conservation measures in Ireland’s newest and largest National Park, Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, established in April 2024.

The PhD research will establish/update detailed baseline data on grey seals to support robust conservation management at Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarra. Specifically, this PhD will (1) Determine seasonal seal abundance across the islands within the national park; (2) Derive a breeding population estimate for grey seals; (3) Investigate factors influencing seal haulout behaviour at fine temporal scales; (4) Quantify consumption of prey species by seals in the area. The objectives will be achieved using a combination of boat and drone surveys, timelapse camera monitoring, diet sampling and statistical modelling.

Funding

The PhD position is funded for four years. It includes a tax-free stipend of €25,000 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate. Non-EU applicants may be required to pay additional non-EU fees of €10,000.

Start date

1 March 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter

Eligibility criteria

Essential:

• A 1.1 or 2.1 BSc honours degree (or equivalent) in biology, zoology, ecology, conservation or related subject.
• A good understanding of or strong interest in seal ecology.
• A strong understanding of experimental design, data analysis and statistics.
• Willingness to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Experience of conducting zoological field work.
• Evidence of having completed a research project.
• Full, clean driving licence valid in the EU/Ireland.

Desirable:

• MSc in a relevant subject.
• Experience in analysing remote sensing imagery.

To Apply: 

Please send your application to Dr Mark Jessopp (m.jessopp@ucc.ie) with “Seal PhD application” in the subject line of the email. The deadline is 31^st Jan 2025.

Please attach a single PDF document containing a cover letter of 1 to 2 pages setting out your suitability and motivation for this PhD with reference to your relevant experience and achievements, and a CV that includes your relevant experience, undergraduate results, any relevant publications (if applicable) and contact information for two academic referees.

Please contact Dr Mark Jessopp (m.jessopp@ucc.ie ) or Prof. Emer Rogan (e.rogan@ucc.ie) if you have any questions about the position.