Texas A&M University

Homepage: https://artsci.tamu.edu/oceanography/index.html

The Rising Fluids Lab at Texas A&M University invites applications for a fully funded, full-time PhD student position.

This interdisciplinary study investigates the biogeochemical and geological controls on methane seeps in the northern US Atlantic Margin. By integrating geochemical, microbiological, and geophysical data, we aim to investigate the genesis of seep fluids and migration pathways, quantify methane oxidation processes in a modern seep, while reconstructing methane seepage characteristics and gas hydrate stability in the past. The project combines geophysical characterization with the autonomous underwater vehicle Sentry at active seep sites with gravity and jumbo piston coring, as well as targeted sampling using the human-occupied deep submergence vehicle ALVIN. This strategy will retrieve multiscale seafloor and sub-seafloor datasets, capturing a record longer than previously recovered at any other seeps along this margin.

This project is a high-collaboration effort between four major institutions, offering the selected student an expansive professional network and access to multiscale seafloor datasets.

Position Overview

This position offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the geological record of seafloor methane discharge using sediment core proxies and methane-derived authigenic carbonates, with a primary emphasis on stable isotope records in benthic foraminifera. The project will involve participation in a month-long offshore expedition aboard a research vessel, with potential for additional seagoing experience. Travel includes research visits to the Marine and Geology Repository at Oregon State University.

This is a fixed-term position ideally starting in August 2026.

Responsibilities

• Analyze long cores for sedimentological, geophysical, and geochemical proxies
• Process and sample benthic foraminifera for ecological and geochemical analyses
• Analyze and interpret Carbon and Oxygen stable isotopes in carbonates
• Interpret data to reconstruct paleo-seepage dynamics
• Contribute to project reporting, present at international conferences, and publish in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals

Qualifications

Basic Requirements

• B.Sc. (M.Sc. preferred) in Geosciences, Oceanography, Earth Sciences, Geology, Micropaleontology, or Biology.
• Prior experience in a laboratory research environment
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a collaborative team

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in benthic foraminifera identification (highly desirable)
• Strong motivation to learn carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis
• Physical ability and willingness to participate in offshore research expeditions
• Experience with

Application:

Applicants should submit a single PDF file containing

1. Motivation letter describing your research interests and fit for the position
2. Current CV
3. Copies of unofficial transcripts
4. Contact info for two professional references.

Review Timeline: Review of applications begins April 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. For questions, please contact Dr. Davide Oppo at doppo@tamu.edu.

About the Community

The Rising Fluids Lab and the Department of Oceanography at TAMU are committed to fostering a diverse, curious, and collaborative ecosystem. As part of the Texas A&M Ocean Sciences Alliance, students benefit from a massive concentration of resources (GERG, IODP, Texas Sea Grant) alongside the vibrant cultural and athletic life of College Station.

Application material must be uploaded here