Multiscale Prediction of Groundwater Response to Extreme Events - PhD

Application Deadline: 17th July 2015, 5 pm
Start Date: October 2015
Eligibility: UK, EU
Duration of award: 3 years
Ref: CRAN1069
Supervisors: Cranfield Professor Ian Holman; Dr Ron Corstanje Birmingham Dr Mark Cuthbert

The day-to-day dynamics of groundwater behaviour are driven by local weather and recharge patterns, but previous research has identified that there are also significant temporal relationships large scale ocean-atmosphere conditions. This project will seek to expand on this earlier work by combining advanced statistical methods, extensive spatiotemporal (including climatological, meteorological, hydrogeological) datasets and groundwater modelling to further analyse these relationships so as to be able to better predict and manage groundwater level response to extreme events. The research will focus on a large dataset of long term groundwater levels records from boreholes across the UK (and more broadly in Europe where available) to understand the differences in sensitivity between different aquifers or climatological areas.

The successful applicant will have a background in the environmental or atmospheric sciences, be highly numerate and have experience in statistical analysis of environmental datasets. They will be supported by an experienced supervisory team from Cranfield and Birmingham universities and the British Geological Survey and will be provided by extensive training within the DREAM programme’s Advanced Technical Skills and Transferable Skills and Leadership training.

This studentship is offered as part of the DREAM CDT programme which offers an attractive stipend and has a strong professional development ethos. The programme will provide a research experience combining academic rigour with real world problem solving, ensuring you have the opportunities to progress your career in the global informatics sector. Researchers will study for a PhD, benefiting from expertise, events and courses run at all four of the partner universities. [Email Address Removed]

For further details:
Professor Ian Holman:
Email: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone: +44 (0) 1234 758277

Supervisory panel:
Cranfield Professor Ian Holman; Dr Ron Corstanje Birmingham Dr Mark Cuthbert
Industrial partner British Geological Survey

Entry requirements:
Applicants should be highly numerate and hold a minimum of a UK Honours Degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in subjects such as Environmental or Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Statistics, Physical Geography or Natural Sciences.

How to apply:
For further information please contact:
Professor Ian Holman: E: [Email Address Removed] T: +44 (0) 1234 758277

Professor Jason Weeks
School of Energy, Environment and Agrifood
Professor Jason Weeks E: [Email Address Removed] T: 44 (0)1234 754963
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form