Research Fellow in Polar Oceanography

University of South Hampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Antarctic research cruises

Job summary

National Oceanography Centre Southampton, University of Southampton, seeks a Research Fellow to study regime shifts in Southern Ocean circulation within the ERC-funded ROSS-SHIFT project. The role combines analysis of satellite data, in situ observations and model outputs to understand impacts on the Antarctic ice sheet and global overturning circulation.

The successful candidate will work with international collaborators and may join Antarctic research cruises, contributing to high-impact

Qualifications

• Experience in physical oceanography, remote sensing, or related disciplines.
• Familiarity with satellite data, observations, and numerical models.
• Strong analytical and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Investigate regime shifts in ocean circulation in the Ross Sea.
• Analyse satellite observations and model outputs to identify changes.
• Collaborate with international partners and participate in Antarctic cruises.
• Publish findings and contribute to ERC project deliverables.

Skills

Physical oceanography

Satellite remote sensing

Ocean observations

Numerical modelling

Mathematics

Physics

Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Fellow to join our vibrant research community at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton, University of Southampton, to work on the European Research Council-funded ROSS-SHIFT (Ross Sea Regime Shift) project.

The successful candidate will investigate potential regime shifts in ocean circulation in the Ross Sea and wider Southern Ocean, and their implications for Antarctic Ice Sheet melting and the Southern Ocean Overturning Circulation. The research will aim to improve our understanding of how changes in ocean circulation and freshwater content influence ocean heat transport towards Antarctic ice shelves, affect their basal melting, and interact with the large-scale overturning circulation. The work will involve the analysis of satellite observations, alongside in situ oceanographic measurements and numerical model outputs, to identify, characterise, and understand changes in Southern Ocean dynamics.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge Antarctic research in an international, collaborative environment, with the possibility of participating in Antarctic research cruises. The successful candidate will work closely with collaborators at the British Antarctic Survey, University College London, the University of Gothenburg, the Norwegian Polar Institute and the University of Naples Parthenope.

We welcome applications from researchers with experience in physical oceanography, satellite remote sensing, ocean observations, numerical modelling, or related disciplines such as mathematics and physics.

The position is expected to start on 1 March 2027 for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extension subject to satisfactory progress and funding availability. Some flexibility regarding the start date is available and can be discussed with the successful candidate. For further information or informal enquiries, please contact Dr Alessandro Silvano [e-mail] .

Working at the University of Southampton:

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.