Effects of future agricultural scenarios on air quality and ecosystem protection

Agriculture is a key sector in terms of air quality, biodiversity and climate change. It is the dominant source of ammonia resulting in modification of the cycling of nitrogen in the environment with major consequences for biodiversity, and atmospheric chemical reactions producing small particles with adverse effects on human health. Agriculture is also a large source of greenhouse gas emissions such as nitrous oxide and methane, playing a crucial role in net zero climate pathways and competing future land uses. A shift in diet away from meat and dairy products between now and 2050 may also result in significant changes in the agricultural sector, with potential implications for healthy diets and obesity. What the UK’s agricultural sector will look like in 2050 is therefore highly uncertain. The aim of this studentship will be to define potential future scenarios and explore the resulting consequences with respect to the UKs climate change, air quality and biodiversity targets. Comparison will be made with related work in other European countries.

The studentship will be linked to work for Defra to support national air pollution control strategies, and will be based in the Integrated Assessment Unit of the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College. It will draw on expertise within a Defra research consortium including the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, UKCEH, and will have access to modelling undertaken for Defra including use of the UK Integrated Assessment Model, UKIAM, developed to model future UK emission scenarios with respect to ecosystem protection and human health. It will require good computing skills and a good degree in a relevant discipline, plus a strong interest in computer modelling and protection of the natural environment.

To apply please send a CV with academic qualifications and 2 referees, plus why you think you would be a strong candidate, to Professor Helen ApSimon ([Email Address Removed]) by 8 September. Selected candidates will be interviewed in the following week to start in October 2021 or shortly after.

Alternative Project: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/synergies-between-climate-measures-and-air-quality-strategies/?p134164