Description du sujet de thèse

The PhD student will be involved in the ERC Starting Grant project “Deep-C,” which investigates the response of coastal calcium carbonate systems to environmental changes such as ocean warming and acidification. The research will focus on the role of biologically-mediated calcium carbonate precipitation and dissolution in the marine carbon cycle, especially in vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

Contexte de travail

● Conduct fieldwork to collect sediment cores and benthic calcifying organisms from
diverse coastal and deep-sea environments.
● Run laboratory experiments simulating future environmental conditions to assess
precipitation/dissolution dynamics of CaCO₃.
● Analyze samples using techniques such as X-ray diffraction, micro-CT scanning, and flow cytometry.
● Utilize satellite remote sensing and GIS tools to track carbonate transport and sediment resuspension.
● Collaborate with research teams at CEREGE, LOV, and international partners.

Candidate profile:
● Strong background in biogeochemistry, marine biology, oceanography, or related fields.
● Experience with field sampling and laboratory-based environmental experiments.
● Familiarity with analytical techniques mentioned above.
● Competence in data processing and GIS tools.
● Good oral and written communication skills in English.
● Ability to work collaboratively in an international, interdisciplinary environment.

The successful candidate will be based jointly at CEREGE (European Centre for Research and Teaching in Environmental Geosciences, Aix-en-Provence) and LOV (Laboratoire
d'Océanographie de Villefranche). These institutions offer state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research environment across the Earth and Marine Sciences.

Contraintes et risques

● Fieldwork in marine and coastal areas, including international travel.
● Handling of chemical products in laboratory settings under strict safety protocols.