other invertebrates, yet fundamental ecological knowledge remains limited because of the logistical challenges associated with surveying these depths.
This PhD project will investigate the biodiversity, community structure, environmental drivers and ecosystem functioning of temperate rariphotic reefs throughout New Zealand using high-definition remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). ROV surveys will be undertaken across multiple regions spanning different environmental gradients. High-resolution imagery and video will be used to quantify species composition, benthic cover, habitat complexity and fish assemblages, with a particular focus on glass sponges.
Photogrammetric techniques will be employed to generate three-dimensional reconstructions of representative rariphotic habitats, allowing habitat complexity and structural characteristics to be quantified. Machine-learning approaches will also be developed to automate image annotation, substantially increasing the efficiency of ecological analyses and enabling large-scale monitoring programmes.
The project will address fundamental questions regarding the existence of distinct rariphotic communities in temperate waters, identify the environmental thresholds that structure these ecosystems and assess their connectivity with shallower mesophotic and photic habitats. Particular emphasis will be placed on identifying vulnerable marine ecosystems dominated by habitat-forming taxa such as black corals, stylasterids, gorgonians and glass sponge gardens. The project may also include the use of eDNA to assess biodiversity in these ecosystems.
The outcomes will provide the first comprehensive ecological assessment of New Zealand’s temperate rariphotic zone and deliver critical baseline information for marine spatial planning, biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation. This project will combine cutting-edge ROV technology, quantitative image analysis, photogrammetry and artificial intelligence to establish a new framework for monitoring one of New Zealand’s final marine frontiers.
Application process
To apply for the PhD position, please send the following documentation to Prof. James Bell at james.bell@vuw.ac.nz DIRECTLY)
- Cover Letter
- CV
- Copies of academic transcripts
- Writing sample (e.g., a first-author publication, or MSc thesis chapter)
- Names of two academic referees (including a thesis supervisor)
Note: Applicants must also meet the entry requirements for PhD study at Victoria University of Wellington. Refer to the Wellington Faculty of Graduate Research.
A start date of 1st March 2027 is preferred, although there is some flexibility in this.
Funding Notes
IMPORTANT NOTE: THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL NEED TO APPLY FOR A VUW FUNDED DOCTORAL SCHOLARSHIP SEE: View Website
There is an absolute minimum requirement of a Masters or honors degree with a minimum GPA of 3.8 or better. The VUW scholarships are extremely competitive. Ideal candidates will also have one or more peer-reviewed articles as this will increase the chances of the candidate obtaining a VUW scholarship. Applicants must display excellent written and verbal science communication skills.
