Project Description:
A wealth of research identifies how terrestrial ecosystems influence aquatic ones, influencing flows of water, nutrients and pollutants. Yet aquatic environments are also vital for terrestrial ecosystems, providing climate refugia, enhancing landscape connectivity for terrestrial species, and acting as a source of nutrients that are transported to upland forests via fauna. Despite their potential importance, our understanding of these processes remains limited. This knowledge gap is particularly important in human-modified tropical forest landscapes, where riparian vegetation makes an important contribution to the extent and connectivity of remaining upland forests. This PhD project will help guide conservation and restoration policies by exploring aquatic-terrestrial connections in the Brazilian Amazon. The student will examine this using a range of innovative methods involving fieldwork, spatial analysis and modelling. The successful candidate will be part of a vibrant research group linking students based in the UK and Brazil.
General eligibility criteria
Enthusiasm, independence, self-motivation, curiosity and the ability to communicate to a range of audiences are all distinctly advantageous qualities for a PhD. Applicants would normally be expected to hold a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in a relevant degree course. However, applicants who have gained experience in relevant fields through non-traditional routes are strongly encouraged to apply. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, candidates who are in the first generation of their family to go to university, candidates who have been in care or who have been a young carer, and candidates from a low-income background.
English language requirements for overseas students can be found here.
Project specific criteria
We welcome applications from UK and international students. Ability to communicate in Portuguese (or Spanish) is welcome, but not essential. Fieldwork and publishing experience are desirable.
Studentship funding
Full studentships (UK tuition fees and stipend (£16,062 2022/23 [tax free])) for UK students for 3.5 years or full studentships (International tuition fees and stipend (£16,062 2022/23 [tax free])) for International students for 3 years.
Selection information
Candidates should note that there are a total of six studentships available for this call, which means that not every project will be assigned a student. Applications will first be shortlisted by the project supervisor with a final interview and shortlisting conducted by a departmental panel.
One studentship is specifically reserved for a candidate from a global south country. If this applies to you, please make this clear on your application form.
Dates
Deadline for applications: 20th May 2022
Provisional Interview Date: to be confirmed
Start Date: October 2022
To apply, please visit https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/lec/graduate-school/phd/phd-opportunities/#from-streams-to-land--how-aquatic-environments-are-supporting-biodiversity-and-ecosystem-functioning-across-the-amazonian-arc-of-deforestation-371066-9
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