Multi-disciplinary connectivity investigation of Priority Marine Features in Scottish waters using bio-physical modelling and population genomics

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are designated for the protection and conservation of a range of species and habitats. However, effective spatial management of MPA networks relies on understanding the linkages between protected features within MPAs and the relationship that they have with species and habitats outwith the network. This fully funded project aims to improve our understanding of sensitive species with regard to their distribution and persistence in Scottish waters. You will focus on Priority Marine Features (PMFs; species identified as being of conservation importance in Scotland’s seas), specifically flame shells (Limaria hians) and horse mussels (Modiolus modiolus). Previous work has identified knowledge gaps with regard to these species, which are benthic and sessile as adults, but rely on a pelagic larval phase for transport.

This multi-disciplinary project offers excellent career building training in diverse fields, using cutting edge bio-physical and habitat modelling in conjunction with novel population genomic approaches. Bio-physical models can be used as a tool to examine connectivity of benthic populations since larvae are transported by currents. The modelling component of the project will use output from the Scottish Shelf Model in combination with the Lagrangian particle tracking FISCM code to track virtual particles. Detailed genomic analyses (such as utilising single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) can provide estimates of contemporary connectivity, genetic diversity, effective population size, and the role of local adaptation in population persistence. The novel integration of these data can be used to validate the larval dispersal model outcomes, which aim to explain mechanisms behind population connectivity. This work can inform evidence-based management in cases such as the timely proposal for a new MPA at Loch Carron (March 2018), home to the largest flame shell beds in the world.

This exciting project would suit a highly motivated and collaborative candidate with a good background in genetics/genomics and/or knowledge of physical oceanography, bio-physical and habitat suitability models. You would join a collegiate academic environment at the University of Aberdeen and gain experience at a government laboratory. As a research scientist you would participate in planned fieldwork and be part of a vibrant academic team of national and international collaborators. Aberdeen is a diverse town on the North Sea, offering a good residential environment with easy access to unspoilt terrestrial and marine environments.


Funded by NERC Studentships awarded to the SUPER Doctoral Training Partnership. The SUPER DTP partner Universities are St Andrews University, Aberdeen University, Edinburgh Napier University, Heriot-Watt University, the University of the Highlands and Islands, Stirling University, University of Strathclyde and the University of the West of Scotland. Underpinning these research partners, providing additional training and projects are Marine Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, and the James Hutton Institute, among a total of 40 stakeholder organisations including industry and government agencies and international collaborators.