We are recruiting an MSc student who will use tools in genomics and molecular biology (particularly ddPCR and eDNA) to uncover new ways to perform environmental risk assessments, and establish better ways of monitoring the impact of offshore wind turbine installation.
This work is part of an MBIE Endeavour programme (De-risking New Zealand’s offshore wind: next-generation spatial planning and ecological assessment), and includes exciting opportunities to collaborate with world-leading scientists at research institutions across the country, perform fieldwork at sea on one of New Zealand’s dedicated research vessels, and gain sought-after skills. (More programme details: https://niwa.co.nz/research/de-risking-new-zealands-offshore-wind-energy)
The project will involve validating and implementing targeted assays using highly sensitive molecular biology approaches, to provide rapid assessments of target species that are predicted to be impacted by offshore wind structures. We will use eDNA sampling (water and sediments) in conjunction with species-specific ddPCR detection and metabarcoding to examine relative species abundance across space and time.
This project would suit a candidate with some existing research experience in fields such as environmental sampling, genomic analysis or molecular biology, and an interest in fieldwork, but we are happy to consider applicants with other relevant backgrounds.
The student will be enrolled at the University of Otago, but will be co-supervised by scientists at Earth Sciences New Zealand (Dr Jaret Bilewitch) and the University of Plymouth (UK, Dr Gert-Jan Jeunen), with opportunities to spend time in Wellington according to student interest. This project has a flexible start date around the middle of 2026.
This position comes with a stipend ($22,000 NZ), a tuition fee waiver at NZ rates, and will receive further support from the broader work programme, including dedicated networking and training opportunities. In particular, there will be opportunities to work alongside scientists and students from across Aotearoa.
For more information please contact Nathan Kenny (nathan.kenny@otago.ac.nz). To apply, please send a CV, a few paragraphs stating your skillset, fit, and reason for interest in the position, and two academic referees to the address above.
NB: International applicants with a strong academic and research record are eligible for funding under this scheme, but tuition costs are only included at New Zealand resident rates, and any shortfall may need to be covered.