Developing an innovative technique for peatland assessment, pre and post restoration

The Research Aim:

This project aims to develop an innovative technique for peatland assessment, pre and post restoration, that will inform the delivery of enduring and cost-effective restoration. This will provide the host business with a new service designed to engage with effective, functional peatland restoration and support evidence led investment into the growing carbon credit market.

·        To quantify and compare the effectiveness of a suite of restoration techniques currently employed in commercial peatland restoration of UK upland blanket bog.

·        To understand the effectiveness of restoration techniques on peatland functional ecology; vegetation, hydrology and water quality/chemistry as indicators of GHG gas flux reductions, due to restoration, and the resulting potential for carbon sequestration/storage.

Supervision Team:

Dr Alexander Poynter, Institute of Science & Environment, University of Cumbria & Dr Darrell Smith, Barker & Bland Ltd and Visiting Fellow, Institute of Science and Environment, University of Cumbria 

Details:

·        Full-time PhD

·        Applicants should have a degree in environmental science or geography, or similar discipline.

·        Annual stipend of £15,609 (tax-free)

·        Annual expenses allowance £500 (subject to eligibility of costs)

·        Funded UK/EU tuition fees

·        The first year of research is funded through the European Regional Development Fund –  Cumbria Innovations Platform II Project . Further funding to support continuing study will potentially be available from the University subject to satisfactory completion of Year 1.

·        Join a cohort of student researchers working on industry-led innovation projects

·        Work alongside a leading industry partner (Barker & Bland) 

·        This project is based at the University of Cumbria, Ambleside Campus, in the heart of the Lake District, where our community of practice in conservation is centred. We are the only University campus in the UK located in both a designated National Park and UNESCO World Heritage site.

·        Finish in a strong position to enter a competitive job market in the UK and overseas.

How to Apply: 

• Applications from UK/EU students only

To apply, email the below documents to: [Email Address Removed]

• Application Form

• PhD Research Proposal

• PDF scanned copies of certificates & transcripts (list of degree module grades achieved) for all completed undergraduate & postgraduate degrees

Please download the Application Form and guidance for writing a Research Proposal here

Application deadline: Midnight on Sunday 12^th December 2021

Initial interview date: Friday 17^th December 2021

Start: Monday 17^th January 2022