Predicting Invasion Probabilities of Introduced Non-native Freshwater Fishes According to Climate Change and Management Interventions

This PhD investigates how climate change will affect the invasiveness of non-native fishes and how management responses could minimise their impacts. The research will develop predictive models that enable invasion probabilities to be determined for a range of non-native freshwater fishes according to their current and future climate suitability, dispersal ability and the effectiveness of management interventions at minimising their invasion. This will be done using England as the model region for invasion, as it provides a temperate region in which the invasiveness of many non-native fishes is likely to increase with climate change.

It is anticipated that the modelling approach will be based on agent based models (ABMs) that consider the system components (‘agents’) and attempt to understand how system properties emerge from interactions between agents and their environment. The PhD objectives are to select the fishes to model fishes and generate data on current and future species-climate relationships, species-species interactions, and identify appropriate management interventions, and to then develop the ABMs for each model species. This will enable the production of of species-specific final models with the power to predict current invasion probabilities within and between river basins that can then be used predictivity, for example, how climate change and management interventions will influence future invasion probabilities.

How to apply: Applications are made via our website using the Apply Online button below. If you have an enquiry about this project please contact us via the Email NOW button below, however your application will only be processed once you have submitted an application form as opposed to emailing your CV to us.

Studentship candidates must demonstrate outstanding academic potential with preferably a 1st class honours degree and/or a Master’s degree with distinction or equivalent Grade Point Average. An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (with a minimum 5.5 in each component) is essential for candidates for whom English is not their first language. In addition to satisfying basic entry criteria, BU will look closely at the qualities, skills and background of each candidate and what they can bring to their chosen research project in order to ensure successful completion.

Some knowledge of invasion biology and ecological modelling is desirable.

Applicants should have competencies in ecological modelling which must be demonstrated during the selection process.