Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Biology programme. The position is available from August 2025 or later.
Title:
Investigating in-cloud processes of Arctic bioaerosols
Research area and project description:
The Arctic is warming four times faster than the global average due to positive feedback mechanisms triggered by sea and land ice melt. One of the largest uncertainties in climate predictions—both globally and in the Arctic—is cloud formation and cloud properties, as highlighted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Aerosols play a crucial role in cloud processes, with up to 25% of atmospheric aerosols being of biological origin (bioaerosols). Among these, biological ice-nucleating particles (BioINPs) are particularly important, as they initiate cloud ice formation – a prerequisite for over 60% of global precipitation events—and influence cloud radiative properties and lifetime.
While BioINP affect cloud ice formation in the Arctic, the quantitative significance of these processes remains poorly understood. To improve climate predictions, it is critical to enhance our understanding of atmospheric and in-cloud processes which are involved in bioaerosol-cloud interactions.
This PhD project aims to study INA microorganisms and BioINP at simulated atmospheric conditions. The project adopts an interdisciplinary approach and includes fieldwork in the Arctic.
The PhD candidate will employ a range of atmospheric science, molecular, and microbiological techniques, including:
This project presents an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of microbiology, environmental science, and climate research, contributing to a better understanding of bioaerosol-related climate feedbacks in the Arctic.
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Qualifications and specific competences:
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a solid background in natural or technical sciences, such as atmospheric science, physics, chemistry, engineering, nanoscience, environmental science or related fields.
Qualifications:
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Biology, Ny Munkegade 114-116, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact: Associate Professor Tina Santl-Temkiv, temkiv@bio.au.dk or Professor Kai Finster, kai.finster@bio.au.dk
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2025)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.
