Project Description
Supervisors
Dr Uwe Balthasar, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth
Professor Simon Ussher, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth
Dr Simon Whelan, School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth
Scientific Background
Calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) concentrations in seawater fundamentally impact marine ecosystems, as organisms have evolved physiologies and carbonate secretion mechanisms specifically adapted to these chemical conditions [1, 2]. Understanding the environmental variability of these ions will help to better predict the impact of ocean warming [1] and acidification on marine calcifying organisms. While historically considered globally stable over ecological time scales, recent global surveys reveal significant variability in coastal waters due to a range of possible factors such as river runoff, coastal upwelling or biological activity [3]. However, critical gaps remain in our understanding of how concentrations fluctuate across tidal to seasonal timescales, as existing data consists primarily of isolated measurements.
Understanding coastal Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ dynamics across ecological timescales is crucial for advancing knowledge of global geochemical cycles and predicting impacts on marine calcifying organisms. Current knowledge remains limited due to inadequate real-time monitoring capabilities.
This project addresses these limitations by developing innovative screen-printed ion-specific electrodes for continuous, real-time monitoring of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ fluctuations in coastal seawater.
Research Methodology
You will be joining our Sensor Technologies Research Group (STRG) to produce and validate screen-printed Ca2+ and Mg2+ electrodes using established protocols [3,4] and our in-house fabrication facilities for screen-printed electronics. Following rigorous laboratory validation, field testing will occur in Plymouth Sound to capture real-time ionic fluctuations over multiple tidal cycles.
Training
Comprehensive training will cover screen-printing techniques for conductive materials, chemical functionalization processes for electrode-to-sensor conversion, and electrochemical data analysis. Additional training includes electrode characterization using scanning electron microscopy and spectroscopic techniques, plus specialized instruction in Mg/Ca data interpretation and environmental applications.
Person Specification
We seek an engaging individual with strong laboratory and analytical skills and an enthusiasm for applying chemical knowledge to address environmental questions. Prior experience of programming is desirable.
Acceptable first degree subjects: Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biological Science, Earth Science
Project code: BALTHASAR_PLYM_ARIES26