Research Fellow in Polar Oceanography

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.