Funding

Self-funded

Project code

GEOG1271015

Start dates

October/February

Application deadline

Applications accepted all year round

On this self-funded PhD programme, you'll research spatial patterns in temperature, particularly the role of cold air drainage in arctic and mountains environments in causing decoupling of the surface climate from the free air profile.

This PhD is supervised by Dr Nick Pepin, and you'll compare field data and model simulations from across the globe.

The work will include:

  • comparing field data and model simulations in locations including Finnish Lapland, the Pyrenees, Colorado and East Africa
  • the use of satellite data (e.g. MODIS) to measure temperature in mountain regions – in particular the validation of satellite technology for temperature measurement in complex landscapes using in situ field data

There is also the potential for joint projects across the department – such as research into the relevance of microclimate and cold air drainage for palaeoclimate reconstruction in an Arctic context.

There's also potential for investigations into glacier mass balance and retreat, both in the tropics (see Dr Pepin’s current research on Kilimanjaro) and in other high latitude locations (Svalbard and Norway). This is in collaboration with Dr Clare Boston and Dr Harold Lovell.

Fees and funding

Visit the research subject area page for fees and funding information for this project.

Funding availability: Self-funded PhD students only. 

PhD full-time and part-time courses are eligible for the UK Government Doctoral Loan (UK and EU students only).

Bench fees

Some PhD projects may include additional fees – known as bench fees – for equipment and other consumables, and these will be added to your standard tuition fee. Speak to the supervisory team during your interview about any additional fees you may have to pay. Please note, bench fees are not eligible for discounts and are non-refundable.

 

Entry Requirements Accordian Panel

  • A good first degree from an internationally recognised university (depending on the course, minimum second class or equivalent) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject
  • Exceptionally, equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will be considered
  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0
  • All applicants are subject to interview

How to Apply

To make an enquiry or to discuss this project informally with Dr Nick Pepin, call +44 (0)23 9284 2507 or email nicholas.pepin@port.ac.uk, quoting the project code GEOG1271015 and the project title.

How to apply

When you are ready to apply, please follow the 'Apply now' link on the Geography (Physical and Human) PhD subject area page and select the link for the relevant intake. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV. Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.