Scaling connectivity science in fluvial systems (ESR 6)

This project considers issues of connectivity in relation to sediment transport in fluvial systems, with a particular focus on networks containing bedrock-alluvial channels. A key aspect of this project will be consideration of what forms the fundamental units of a network, and how this can be considered across different scales. The network units that will be investigated are sediment grains, channel bars, exposed bedrock and river reaches. The key question is to what extent an understanding of the structure of these units is necessary to understand sediment fluxes at larger scales. The project will use both field data and numerical modelling. A range of field techniques (e.g. terrestrial laser scanning, structure-from-motion) will be used to collect nested datasets to quantify the structure of these units within one or more UK or international river networks. Field monitoring will also be undertaken to establish sediment mobility within these units. Numerical modelling of network-scale sediment fluxes with varying levels of process representation will be undertaken to address the identified objectives.

Objectives

- To determine the level of process understanding required at one scale in order to predict behaviour at the larger scale;
- to identify whether a (predictive) framework can be developed that incorporates connectivity within and between the different scales;
- to assess can simple measurements be used to predict future events, e.g. as predictions of efficacy of neurofeedback or other intervention.

Expected Results

- Identification of key network units at different scales in fluvial systems;
- Understanding of the extent to which considering a range of scales aids system prediction;
- Development of a connectivity framework that can be used to integrate systems operating at a range of scales;
- Biomarkers for predictions for future behavioural changes, e.g. neurofeedback or other intervention efficacy from resting state measurements using existing EEG data at AAISCS collected as part of the Horizon 2020 project SmokeFreeBrain.

Benefits

Marie Sklodowska-Curie PhDs are paid a competitive gross salary of 3,270 € per month, adjusted for their host country, a Mobility Allowance of 600 € per month and, for researchers who have a family, a Family Allowance of 500 € per month. All amounts are subject to employers and employees deductions and taxes.

Family is defined as persons linked to the researcher by (i) marriage, or (ii) a relationship with equivalent status to a marriage recognised by the national legislation of the country of the beneficiary or of nationality of the researcher, or (iii) dependent children who are actually being maintained by the researcher; family status is determined at recruitment and does not evolve.

ESRs will also get access to funds covering Research, Networking and Training costs. ESRs will also be enrolled for PhD studies at institutions which are part of the consortium. Funding will cover the entire 36-month period. In addition to individual scientific projects, all fellows will benefit from further continuing education, which includes internships and secondments, a variety of training modules as well as transferable skills courses and active participation in workshops and conferences.

Eligibility criteria

To satisfy the eligibility requirements set for an Early Stage Researcher funded by Marie Skłodowska-Curie and you must be eligible to be appointed as an Early Stage Researcher:

Should have — at the date of recruitment — less than 4 years of a research career, and not have a doctoral degree. The 4 years are measured from the date when they obtained the degree which would formally entitle them to embark on a PhD, either in the country where the degree was obtained or in the country where the PhD is provided.

Trans-national mobility: The applicant — at the date of recruitment— should not have resided in the country where the research training takes place for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment, and not have carried out their main activity (work ,studies, etc.) in that country. For refugees under the Geneva Convention (1951 Refugee Convention and the 1967 Protocol), the refugee procedure (i.e. before refugee status is conferred) will not be counted as ‘period of residence/activity in the country of the beneficiary’.

Satisfy the eligibility requirements to enrol on a PhD degree. This includes acceptable English language requirements if English is not your first language.

Selection process

All applications are to be submitted via the hosting institution.

Applications must include the following:

A copy of your CV
Degree transcripts
A motivation letter
Names of 2 referees

Please indicate in your motivation letter if you are interested in being considered for any of the other PhD positions in our network (and if you give us permission to share your application with the host of that project).