The benefits of biodiversity: understanding human-wildlife interactions in urban environments

-Project Outline-
Globally, the human population has expanded rapidly in recent decades, with more than half of all people now living in towns and cities. In more developed regions such as Europe, this proportion is substantially greater and, for many individuals, the only place they encounter biodiversity is within urban areas. As a consequence, people are becoming increasingly disconnected from wildlife. This is a serious concern as there is a rapidly accruing body of evidence that suggests there are substantial personal and societal benefits to be gained from exposure to nature.

Recent research has demonstrated that human psychological well-being responses to species richness are complex and inconsistent across taxonomic groups. Understanding the mechanisms that underpin this variability are important, particularly for conservationists who wish to better align the maintenance of urban biodiversity with the public health agenda. The aim of this project is to investigate whether people react to the presence of particular species (e.g. due to morphological characteristics, colour recognition, call profile, familiarity), diversity or abundance, and how this may be modified by confounding factors in the environment. The studentship will also assess how humans relate to native and non-native species, including rose-ringed parakeets and Himalayan balsam.

-Academic requirements-
Ideally, the successful candidates will have, or be expected to obtain, an MSc degree in either conservation, psychology, environmental sciences or human sciences. However, applications will also be considered from exceptional students with a first class BSc degree. Other desirable attributes include:
• A passion for, and understanding of, biodiversity conservation
• A desire to work across traditional academic disciplines
• Outstanding communication, organisational and analytical skills
• Experience of conducting successful research projects

-How to apply-
To be considered for this scholarship, please send the following documents to Shelley Malekia ([Email Address Removed]) by the 30th April 2013:
• A covering letter (up to two pages long) stating the reasons why you wish to undertake a PhD, and explaining why you believe you would be suitable for this particular studentship
• A full CV (including an educational history and details of any relevant research experience (e.g. publications, conference presentations, fieldwork, laboratory work)
• Evidence of academic achievements (i.e. copies of transcripts and/or certificates)
• Two references, one of which must be academic, supplied either on headed paper or via email from an institutional address
Please note that it is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that all paperwork, including both references, is submitted prior to the deadline. Interviews will be held in early/mid May 2013, with a view to the successful applicant starting in mid-September 2013. Please contact Dr David Roberts ([Email Address Removed]), if you have any informal questions regarding the project.