Dr M Blackwell, Prof P Haygarth
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
The phosphorus cycle is arguably the most important elemental cycle in natural and agricultural systems, yet still there are many gaps in our knowledge of it, not least the role of transient, gaseous forms of phosphorus such as phosphine. Tantalising evidence exists suggesting it is an important transformation pathway in soils and other substrates.
Working with both academic experts and the research team at Elemental Digest Systems Ltd. (EDS), this project provides a unique opportunity to investigate this enigmatic topic, exploring a range of natural soil systems and sources of phosphorus (including EDS’s own fertiliser). Gaining expertise in a range of specialist and fundamental analytical techniques, this project will deliver an experienced all-round soil scientist, with opportunities to develop overseas collaborations in the process. An enquiring mind and a desire to make a difference are required to undertake this exciting delve into the phosphorus cycle, with potentially globally significant results.Understanding the phosphorus cycle in natural and agricultural soils is fundamental to our knowledge of how these systems operate. Despite this, many gaps still exist in our knowledge of the phosphorus cycle. One of the most enigmatic issues is the role of transient, gaseous forms of phosphorus.
Tantalising evidence exists suggesting it is more important transformation pathway than previously thought. Through a programme of training in both highly advanced and fundamental soil characterisation and process study techniques, the student will have the opportunity to investigate this subject, becoming an experienced all-round soil scientist in the process.
The supervisory team of world leading experts will ensure plentiful opportunities are provided to develop training opportunities and international collaborations to facilitate this. A strong background in chemistry will be required to undertake this exciting delve into the depths of the phosphorus cycle, which could shed light on the importance of gaseous phosphorus.
The student’s project will be aligned with ongoing phosphorus research programmes at Rothamsted and Lancaster (Rothamsted ISPG, Haygarth BBSRC/NERC and others on soil phosphorus) providing the opportunity for interacting with key experts in phosphorus research during meetings in the UK, and abroad, with opportunities for extended periods in overseas laboratories (e.g. STRI, Panama; USL, USA).
Applicants should hold a minimum of a UK Honours Degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in subjects such as Environmental Science, Soil Science or Chemistry. The student must have strong analytical skills and an interest in the application of advanced analytical methods, as well as some mathematics to support the modelling.
For further details please contact Dr Martin Blackwell: [Email Address Removed]
This project is part the STARS CDT (www.starsoil.org.uk ) and will be registered at Lancaster University.
Funding Notes
The studentships are fully funded for UK residents*, with fees paid and a stipend of £14,296 (2016/17 rate) tax-free per year. There is also a research training support grant to support the project. Usually a studentship is for three and a half years.
*Full studentships are available to UK and EU candidates who have been ordinarily resident in the UK throughout the 3-year period immediately preceding the date of an award. EU candidates who have not been ordinarily resident in the UK for the last 3 years are eligible for "tuition fees-only" awards (no maintenance grant). Unfortunately studentships are not available to International students. Further details about eligibility can be found on the STARS website.
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