PhD Scholarship in Airborne Observations of Cloud Microphysics and Aerosol-Cloud Interactions over the Great Barrier Reef
Southern Cross University
Southern Cross University is a dynamic university with an innovative research program that focuses on issues that are both regionally relevant and globally significant. SCU work closely with industry, the government sectors, and our community to fulfil this program.
Homepage: https://www.scu.edu.au/graduate-school/higher-degrees-research/doctor-of-philosophy/
Climate: Past, Present & Future (CL)
One of the key areas of research and development at Southern Cross University focuses on exploring technologies to mitigate coral-bleaching stress by reducing the amount of solar radiation reaching the Reef. This involves investigating methods such as Marine Cloud Brightening (MCB) or fog generation to provide shade and lessen solar radiation during periods of heightened risk for coral bleaching. Our interventions range from reef-scale applications to strategies aimed at protecting the entirety of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Through these efforts, we aim to pioneer effective solutions to preserve and enhance coral reefs' resilience to climate change.
We invite applications for a PhD position focused on airborne observations of cloud microphysical properties and aerosol-cloud interactions over the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Australia. The successful candidate will analyse airborne measurements collected over the GBR using research aircraft. These measurements include in situ observations of aerosol and cloud microphysical properties as well as remote sensing observations of clouds and the underlying reef environment. The candidate will compare cloud systems influenced by artificially generated sea-salt aerosol plumes with unperturbed clouds to quantify aerosol-induced changes in droplet number concentration and size distributions, liquid water content, and cloud optical properties.
Please send one PDF file to ramon.braga@scu.edu.au containing:
- Cover letter describing research interests, plans, and qualifications for this scholarship (1 page max).
- Curriculum vitae (2 pages max).
- Relevant degree transcripts/certificates.
- The names and contact information of two references.
Please use the subject line ‘PhD Application – Airborne Observations of Cloud Microphysics’. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting 16 March 2026 until the position is filled.