Using a multiproxy analysis of springbok fossils to track 2 million years of vegetation changes experienced by hominins in southern Africa

This is one of the founding studentships of the new Institute for Studies in Landscape and Human Evolution (ISLHE) at BU [https://research.bournemouth.ac.uk/centre/institute-for-studies-in-landscape-and-human-evolution/]

The period between 2.8 and 0.8 million years ago saw great changes in the evolution of our lineage including the emergence of our genus, Homo. One way to understand the environmental changes that affected human evolution is to examine: (1) herbivorous species that accurately reflect the vegetation conditions present at that time; (2) are abundant during the same time period as the hominins existed; (3) which co-existed in the same changing habitats as our ancestors; and (4) adapted successfully to the climate changes (i.e. a genus that still exists today). In this way data can be obtained on: (1) the pace (abrupt or gradual); and (2) the severity of these environmental changes. This data can be used to evaluate the role of climate and landscape process as evolutionary drivers in other species such as hominins. This ISLHE doctoral project addresses these questions. It will create the first multiproxy framework for vegetation change over this important period testing the role of climate and contrasting dynamic (rift landscapes) in east Africa, with more stable ones in southern Africa. Using fossil teeth and a variety of techniques the candidate will examine ancestral springbok (A. recki), descendant grazing springbok (Antidorcas bondi) and the modern springbok (A. marsupialis) to create:

(1) Vegetation conditions, as experienced by these antelopes, over the period 2.8-0.8 Ma, particularly the pace and severity of these changes, with an eye to assessing the nature and extent of vegetation changes experienced by our own ancestors.
(2) Track how diet and morphology have changed in this lineage over time, to determine what dietary and morphological changes, and when, contributed to the survival of this genus.
(3) To create a baseline reconstruction of vegetation change as a function of climate for southern Africa where stable landscape process prevailed.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work with zoological specimens held in South Africa and the candidate will gain training in comparative anatomy, fossil identification and quantification of dental metrics. This is a collaborative project with the Institut de Paléoprimatologie et Paléontologie humaine: Evolution et Paléoenvironnements at the Université de Poitiers where the candidate will receive training in 2D and 3D microwear analysis and internal 3D topographic analysis of dentine enamel. Training in stable light isotope methodology will be offered at UCL by Philip Hopley.

This type of detailed multiproxy study has not been attempted before and provides the opportunity for the candidate to work on an exciting project of the highest scientific impact.

How to apply: Applications are made via our website using the Apply Online button below. If you have an enquiry about this project please contact us via the Email NOW button below, however your application will only be processed once you have submitted an application form as opposed to emailing your CV to us.

Candidates for funded PhD studentship must demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a PhD in 3 years.
All candidates must satisfy the University’s minimum doctoral entry criteria for studentships of an honours degree at Upper Second Class (2.1) and/or an appropriate Master’s degree. An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (or equivalent) is essential for candidates for whom English is not their first language.

In addition to satisfying basic entry criteria, BU will look closely at the qualities, skills and background of each candidate and what they can bring to their chosen research project in order to ensure successful and timely completion.