PhD Studentship in Ecology and Conservation – Quantifying species recovery following threat abatement

Overview

Interested in the impact of conservation action on endangered species? This PhD project will investigate the how threat reduction activities can change the conservation status of species at risk of extinction. 

The overall aim of this PhD position is to understand and quantify the responses of endangered species to threat abatement activities. The project outcomes will provide evidence to inform decision making for threatened species conservation.

The project will use analytical and modelling techniques to address key objectives, including:

·        Testing the assumption that a reduction in threats results in species recovery at the site level

·        Investigating the ability of local, site-level action to contribute to an overall reduction in species extinction risk

·        Identifying what is needed, in terms of data and local information, to make informed site-level management decisions for species conservation.

The project will draw upon global data for threatened species and will work with partners at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to ensure that outcomes meet the needs of decision makers. The student will develop quantitative data analysis and modelling skills, and gain experience of translating scientific outcomes into practice and communicating with conservation stakeholders.

Number Of Awards

1

Start Date

January 2023.

Award Duration

3 years.

Sponsor

Newcastle University NUAcT Fellowship

Supervisors

Dr Louise Mair, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences.

Eligibility Criteria

You must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent, in ecology, biodiversity conservation or a related subject.

How To Apply

You must apply through the University’s online postgraduate application system.

You will need to:

·        Insert the programme code 8020F in the programme of study section

·        Select ‘PhD Biology (FT)’ as the programme of study

·        Insert the studentship code SNES228 in the studentship/partnership reference field

·        Attach a covering letter and CV. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote reference code SNES228 and state how your interests and experience relate to the project

·        Attach degree transcripts and certificates and, if English is not your first language, a copy of your English language qualifications.

Please contact the supervisor, Dr Louise Mair, to discuss the project before submitting an application.