Individual and population responses of wild mammals to human-induced disturbance events

One of the main drivers of biodiversity loss is habitat loss and fragmentation. Increasing levels of human induced land management and urbanisation can lead to direct and in-direct impacts on the behaviour, survival and fitness of individuals with consequent impacts on local population viability. In order to mitigate the negative impacts of human-induced disturbance events, we need to better understand the processes which can lead to population extirpation.

This project will focus on individual behavioural and numerical population responses to experimental environmental manipulations to further understand key factors influencing population persistence at the local scale. African savanna small mammals will be used as model organisms to experimentally test individual and population responses to appropriate disturbance events which could include, but are not limited to the following manipulations: prescribed fire events; deployment of artificial lighting; urban development; mowing; grazing; food manipulation and harvesting.

Population responses will be measured using standardised live trapping methodologies in combination with capture recapture models, and behavioural responses will be assessed using methods such as giving up densities and remote video recordings. The study will take place in Malawi (and possibly South Africa depending on the specific questions developed) and involve considerable field work.

Experience of African field work is advantageous, as is a capacity for experimental design and statistical modelling.


Specific qualifications/subject areas required of the applicants for this project (e.g. First degree in specific subject area):
UK 1st Class/2:1 Bachelor’s degree (or UK equivalent according to NARIC) in Biology/Ecology/Zoology/Statistics or related subject; UK Masters degree (or UK equivalent according to NARIC) with a minimum of commendation/distinction in Biology/Ecology/Zoology/Statistics or related subject.

In addition, the following skills would be desirable:
1. Previous experience of peer reviewed publication
2. GIS
3. Statistical modelling using R
4. Extensive field experience, preferably with small mammals
5. A driving licence