Wind-wave-ocean eddy interactions: unravelling coupled processes at the air-sea interface (ZHAIX_U26ENVTS)
About the Project
Dr Tristan Sjoeberg Postgraduate Scholarship
Primary supervisor - Dr Xiaoming Zhai
Scientific background
The exchange of momentum, heat, freshwater and carbon between the atmosphere and ocean is fundamental to the Earth's climate system, regulating ocean circulation, weather patterns and climate variability on regional and global scales. These exchanges are strongly influenced by interactions between surface winds, ocean waves and surface currents, particularly those associated with ocean eddies – energetic swirling currents that span tens to hundreds of kilometres. Despite their importance, many of the processes governing these interactions remain poorly understood and are inadequately represented in current climate and Earth system models, limiting our ability to accurately simulate and predict future changes in ocean circulation, heat uptake and carbon storage.
Research Project
This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to investigate how interactions between winds, surface waves and ocean eddies regulate the transfer of momentum across the air–sea interface and quantify its impact on the ocean. The successful candidate will combine the analysis of state-of-the-art satellite observations and in situ measurements with high-resolution coupled atmosphere-wave-ocean model simulations to advance our understanding of coupled atmosphere-ocean processes.
Training
You will join a vibrant and supportive research group at the University of East Anglia, working closely with experts in physical oceanography, air-sea interaction and climate modelling. The project will provide you with comprehensive training in air-sea interaction, ocean physics and numerical modelling.
Person specification
We seek an enthusiastic candidate with strong scientific interests and self-motivation. They will have a degree in physics, mathematics, oceanography, meteorology, or a related science with good computing and numerical skills.
Entry requirements
The minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in physics, mathematics, oceanography, meteorology or a related science with good computing and numerical skills.
Mode of study
Full-time
Start date
1 October 2026
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