Education for Sustainability and Environmental Impact: The River Garry, a river lost?

This research project adopts an ecosystem services approach to the environment thereby recognising the different services afforded in terms of productivity, ecological support, environmental regulation, and cultural services, including human well-being. It acknowledges that to achieve any, if not all these services, results in environmental impact to a greater or lesser extent. Ensuring this impact avoids the depletion of natural resources and maintains an ecological balance is fundamental to sustainable practices. Notwithstanding, an understanding of biodiversity [the myriad of organisms and habitats fundamental to sustained functioning of the environment] and our impact on this, is at the very heart of sustainability. 

This project begins with a river significantly impacted by the construction of the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric scheme using the University of Dundee associated archive data [c. 1969 – 81]. These data recount a story involving sociological, hydrological, and ecological impacts of the construction. The project involves the collation and analysis of this information together with contemporary monitoring in response to the restoration measures in place to revive and restore the River Garry to its former ecological status. The research looks to lessons learnt, whilst identify mitigating actions that could prevent such impact in other similar national and international schemes.

Set within an Educational context this multi and inter-disciplinary study would be of relevance to social scientists, ecologist, educationalist, and environmental practitioners with an interest in hydrology, human impact and sustainable development.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Dr Liz Lakin ([Email Address Removed])

For general enquiries about the University of Dundee, contact [Email Address Removed]

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent for non-UK qualifications), and/or a Masters degree in a relevant discipline. For international qualifications, please see equivalent entry requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/study/international/country/.

English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) overall score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in reading, listening, speaking or writing). The University of Dundee accepts a variety of equivalent qualifications and alternative ways to demonstrate language proficiency; please see full details of the University’s English language requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/guides/english-language-requirements.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Dr Liz Lakin ([Email Address Removed]) to (1) send a copy of your CV and (2) discuss your potential application and any practicalities (e.g. suitable start date).

Step 2: After discussion with Dr Lakin, formal applications can be made via our direct application system. When applying, please follow the instructions below:

Candidates must apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Education (3 Year) using our direct application system: apply for Education.

Please select the study mode (full-time/part-time) and start date agreed with the lead supervisor.

In the Research Proposal section, please:

-       Enter the lead supervisor’s name in the ‘proposed supervisor’ box

-       Enter the project title listed at the top of this page in the ‘proposed project title’ box

In the ‘personal statement’ section, please outline your suitability for the project selected.