PhD Stipend in environmental effects of fishing gears used in marine protected areas

The project is a collaboration that includes several research institutes. The overall aim is to investigate the impacts of fishing activities on marine ecosystems, particularly seafloor habitats. The primary focus is on marine protected areas where fishing activities are allowed. There are significant fishing activities in the Danish marine protected areas that are designated to protect specific habitats or species based on the EU Habitats Directive. However, the effect from fishing activities on marine nature in these areas are poorly studied and more knowledge is of importance for management decisions. Particularly the consequences of the direct physical disturbance of the seabed caused by towed bottom fishing gears will be in focus. A wide range of methods will be applied. This includes modelling of fishing activities, analysis of the benthic macrofauna sensitivity, and identification of trophic levels by using e-DNA analysis.

You will have the opportunity to shape your own research directions in cooperation with the project supervisors within the objectives of the project. During your scholarship, you will gain scientific expertise in a broad range of marine and fisheries ecology and management issues and gain experience in a wide range of marine research methods. You will have the opportunity for research stays at scientific national institutions as well as in other countries. The working place is in Aalborg at the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience in the research section of Environmental Biomonitoring that have a wide range of expertise and research activities.

Requirements:

• A master's degree in biology, engineering, or a closely related field is an advantage.
• The applicant must be interested in working in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent oral and written English language skills are a requirement.
• Experience in planning and conducting marine fieldwork.
• Laboratory experience.
• Documented knowledge of the marine environment and commercial fisheries.
• Experiments in statistical analysis and modelling.
• Teamwork experience.

 Application:

The application must contain:(1) Cover letter of 1-2 pages describing the motivation for applying and an account of the applicant’s background in relation to the announced position;(2) Project description, which is required for technical reasons– in this case, where you apply for a specific project, you may upload a copy of the project description above;(3) CV;(4) Diploma and transcripts of records; and(5) Other relevant information.

All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. We value diversity and see it as a strength.

You may obtain further information about the scientific aspects of the project from section leader Professor Niels Madsen, phone:+45 20689179; mail:[email protected]  

The Department of Chemistry and Bioscience advances regional, national, and global knowledge build-up, while contributing to the solution of societal challenges through innovative research, problem-based education and knowledge-based collaborations. We produce excellent research in engineering and natural science and Aalborg University constantly ranks top of the World within engineering research and education. In the workplace, we strive for diversity in nationality, culture, and gender, growth as a team effort, maintaining an inspiring physical work environment, and ensuring a good work-life balance.

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1039 of August 27, 2013 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information about stipends and salary as well as practical issues concerning the application procedure contact Ms. Vigdis Skomager-Bohnfeldt, The Doctoral School at The Faculty of Engineering and Science, email:[email protected] , phone:+45 9940 7408.

For more information of The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science:www.phd.engineering.aau.dk  

The application is only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Appointment and salary as a PhD fellow are according to the Ministry of Finance Circular of 15 December 2021 on the Collective Agreement for Academics in Denmark, Appendix 5, regarding PhD fellows, and with the current Circular of 11 December 2019 on the employment structure at Danish universities.