Research Fellowships (PhD & Master's)
MARINE BIOGEOCHEMISTRY RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS
The Institute of Marine Sciences at Middle East Technical University (METU-IMS) invites applications for TWO fully funded graduate research fellowships in a TÜBİTAK-supported climate change project.
FELLOWSHIPS AVAILABLE
Fellowship 1: Master's Research Fellowship (24 months)
Fellowship 2: PhD Research Fellowship (28 months)
Start Date: Spring 2026 (February)
FELLOWSHIP PACKAGE
- Competitive monthly TÜBİTAK research stipend (updated annually)
- BONUS: One selected fellow will receive additional METU funding (DOUBLE the stipend throughout the entire fellowship period)
- Conference travel support
- Publication incentives
- Long-term funding opportunities available beyond fellowship duration
THE PROJECT
"Determining the Impact of Climate Change and Eutrophication on Microbial Carbon Sink Capacity in the Eastern Mediterranean Continental Shelf"
This is the FIRST comprehensive study examining how warming seas and coastal eutrophication affect the carbon cycle in the oligotrophic Eastern Mediterranean. You'll conduct cutting-edge research combining field observations, experimental manipulations, and biogeochemical modeling.
RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
- Oceanographic research cruises aboard R/V Bilim-2
- High-precision metabolic measurements using OPTODE sensors (NCP, GPP, CR)
- Climate manipulation experiments simulating +3°C warming scenarios
- Phytoplankton community analysis via flow cytometry and microscopy
- Biogeochemical sampling across coastal-offshore trophic gradients
- Data analysis, statistical modeling, and carbon sink capacity quantification
- Lead/co-author publications in high-impact international journals
- Present findings at national and international conferences
- Co-organize climate workshop at METU Climate Center
FELLOWSHIP REQUIREMENTS
MASTER'S FELLOWSHIP:
- Bachelor's degree in Marine Sciences, Biology, Environmental Engineering, or related STEM fields
- Strong interest in marine biogeochemistry and climate science
- Laboratory and fieldwork experience preferred
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills
- English proficiency required
PhD FELLOWSHIP:
- Completed Master's degree in relevant fields with thesis
- Demonstrated experience with data analysis and statistical methods
- Programming skills (R, Python, MATLAB) highly preferred
- Strong independent research capabilities
- English proficiency required
Full admission requirements: https://ims.metu.edu.tr/graduate-programs
WHY APPLY?
- FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND research in the Eastern Mediterranean
- Work with state-of-the-art equipment
- International collaborations and networking opportunities
- Target Q1 journals for publications
- Collaboration with METU Climate Center
- Participate in workshop organization and science communication
- Additional research opportunities at the Institute (for METU fellowship recipient)
- Career development in climate science and marine biogeochemistry
- Mediterranean coastal campus location in Erdemli, Turkey
Research Team: 4-5 experienced marine scientists
Research Vessel: R/V Bilim-2 with regular research cruise opportunities
APPLICATION PROCESS
STEP 1 (Initial Application):
Send to mantikci@metu.edu.tr by December 15, 2025:
- Curriculum Vitae (English)
- Motivation letter (max 1 page explaining your interest in the fellowship and relevant research experience)
- Email subject: "Marine Biogeochemistry Fellowship - [Master's/PhD] Application"
STEP 2 (Formal Application):
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to apply through METU Graduate School
Application period: November 24 - December 19, 2025
Interviews will be conducted (online or in-person)
For detailed admission requirements and procedures:
https://ims.metu.edu.tr/graduate-programs
Questions? Contact: Dr. Mustafa Mantıkcı (mantikci@metu.edu.tr)
ABOUT METU INSTITUTE OF MARINE SCIENCES
Turkey's premier marine research institution with advanced analytical facilities, R/V Bilim-2 oceanographic vessel, and strong international collaborations. Our research contributes to understanding Mediterranean ecosystem dynamics and developing climate change adaptation strategies.
Location: METU Erdemli Campus, Mediterranean Coast, Turkey