Road Impacts for the West European Hedgehog; Understanding Mechanisms and Testing Solutions

Every year an estimated 250,000 hedgehogs are killed on the UK’s roads and road mortality has been raised as an important factor in their decline. However, few studies have empirically tested whether road mortality is a driver of hedgehog population decline, or whether populations are able to compensate the road mortality through reproduction and or local dispersal. This study will use a combination of density estimates derived from spatial capture recapture, GPS tracking and individual-based models to quantify the risks that hedgehogs face when crossing roads, and whether mitigation measures such as tunnels can effectively reduce hedgehog mortality rates and improve population viability and connectivity.

We are seeking a student with a strong background in ecology, conservation science or related disciplines, i.e. a student with a good undergraduate degree (First class honours degree) and preferably a good Master’s degree (commendation/merit or distinction).

The project would particularly suit someone who has experience of ecological fieldwork, a keen interest in population dynamics, and who wants to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Strong statistical skills are also desirable. You will work closely with the general public and conservation groups, and engage with landowners, so good communication skills are essential. The student must be ready to start in October 2019.

In addition, the following skills would be desirable:

- Previous experience of peer reviewed publication
- GIS
- Statistical modelling using R (Spatial Capture Recapture, Unmarked, Occupancy)
- Extensive field work experience
- A driving licence

Interviews for this studentship will be conducted from 8 - 12 July 2019.