Overexploitation of marine ecosystems has resulted in many global shark populations becoming heavily depleted 1,2,3. These population declines are largely attributed to overfishing4 and have resulted in considerable ecological ramifications5. Despite widespread calls for action6 and implementation of management measures to protect sharks 7,8,9,10 there is increasing evidence that proximity to human populations can undermine these efforts11,12. This demonstrates an intrinsic connectedness between shark and human communities and reveals a priority for research13. The UN Decade for Ocean Research14 presents an opportunity to evaluate and incorporate social perceptions of ocean literacy into a progressive approach towards shark conservation. Historically, fisheries management in the UK focuses on commercially important species rather than sharks, despite their important regulatory and ecological role. Furthermore, in comparison to other geographical regions, there are relatively few studies on shark populations and ecology, with even fewer studies exploring the intersect between human and sharks in UK coastal communities15; a knowledge gap this studentship looks to address. This project will build on our work previously undertaken in Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation investigating Small spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) abundance and distribution (Cook et al. in prep.).
Project Aims and Methods
This PhD proposal aims to elucidate the social and ecological barriers facing shark communities through a multidisciplinary research approach. Given the current UK governments policy plans to pilot highly protected marine areas, targeted research is needed for UK shark species to ensure the inclusion of effective management strategies. Key areas of research include species-specific information, spatiotemporal habitat use, population connectivity, dietary ecology, and social perceptions. This studentship will address the following important knowledge gaps for small coastal elasmobranchs (Scyliorhinus canicula, Scyliorhinus stellaris): i) Population connectivity of UK shark populations (species-specific); ii) Shark distribution, relative abundance, and species presence in UK waters; iii) shark community structure in sensitive habitats; iv) Human perceptions of shark conservation; and will v) inform policy, management, and mitigation. Findings will be disseminated via established partnerships and through engagement channels including science communication and social media platforms, in addition to academic outputs.
The student will utilise baited remote underwater videos (BRUVS) and population genetics to investigate population connectivity and species abundance. BRUVS are widely used to investigate shark ecology 16-18 and can yield insights into species presence, relative abundance, and distribution. In conjunction with movement ecology data, shark fin clips sourced from recreational angler bycatch from sites across South Wales and South Devon collected over 2 years will be used to provide insights into population connectivity and structure. The student will apply SNPs generated through ddRADseq methodologies before applying bioinformatic tools to identify genetic diversity, population structure and demography. Finally, the human social component will be investigated through UK-wide questionnaires to assess public knowledge and perceptions of sharks, and gauge support for their conservation. This will be achieved through Knowledge Attitudes Practice (KAP) conceptual framework, which can identify associated context specific factors that could be used to guide and evaluate public perceptions of shark conservation.
Co-Supervisor: Neil Cook, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University
Co-Supervisor: Prof Darren Croft, Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter
Candidate requirements
- A highly motivated student with at least an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in ecological, molecular and/or behavioural sciences, or related discipline.
- Practical field abilities and resilience necessary for ecological sampling.
- An understanding of UK elasmobranchs, ecological systems and an interest in marine conservation.
- Experience with molecular ecology, population ecology, bioinformatics, elasmobranch ecology and fish identification is advantageous, but full training will be provided.
Training
The student will receive training in a diverse range of skills, including field sampling, experimental design, molecular ecology, advanced statistical modelling using ‘R’ and GIS. Field experiments will provide exposure to practical marine science and conservation. The student will receive training in elasmobranch identification, molecular techniques, field sampling, standardised BRUVS deployment methodologies, data analysis and media training providing high-level skills in science communication. This broad skill set is highly sought after in conservation organisations and research, making the student highly employable within diverse sectors. Additional courses will be selected (depending upon student background) provided by the Cardiff University Doctoral Academy (e.g., courses on interacting with their supervisors, risk assessment, writing a PhD Thesis, writing grant proposals and diversity training) to assist with the student’s professional development.
How to apply
For information on how to apply for postgraduate study at Cardiff University, please follow this link: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/biosciences-phd-mphil-md When applying, please ensure that you include on the Cardiff application form the project title you are applying for, the supervisor and note ‘NERC DTP’ under the source of funding.
The application deadline is Monday 9 January 2023 at 2359 GMT. Interviews will take place from 22nd February to 8 March 2023. For more information about the NERC GW4+ Doctoral Training Partnership please visit https://www.nercgw4plus.ac.uk.
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