Modelling the influence of flow and other environmental factors on the migration of Atlantic salmon in chalk streams

In collaboration with Southern Water, an EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Infrastructure Systems (CDT-SIS) funded PhD studentship is available to study the influence of flow and other environmental factors (e.g. temperature) on the migratory behaviour of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The studentship duration is 4 years with the first year dedicated to skills development as part of the EPSRC funded Centre for Doctoral Training. The period of research conducted between years 2-4 will take a modelling based approach to enhance understanding of how flow and multiple other environmental and anthropogenic factors influence the migration of Atlantic salmon.

The Atlantic salmon is an iconic species of high conservation and economic value. Although river flow regime is recognised as being an important factor likely to influence salmon migration, habitat quality and connectivity, and ultimately productivity, the relationship between them have proven difficult to quantify, and disentangle from multiple other confounding variables. This is especially true for southern English chalk streams which exhibit unique hydrological characteristics and have experienced centuries of anthropogenic modification and management. This project will investigate the relationships between salmon migration and river flows in Southern English chalk streams. Using a combination of modelling and analysis of historic data sets the influence of flow and other factors, including anthropogenic pressures and management regimes, on salmon movements will be described. Alternative flow management and climate change scenarios will be considered in an attempt to predict future response. The information obtained is intended to inform those involved with the operational practice and planning of river and fisheries management in southern England.

Well-qualified candidates should have a degree in an appropriate subject related to hydrology / hydraulics or biology / ecology disciplines. The candidate should be prepared to attempt to bridge the disciplinary divide, have an innate curiosity driven interest in research and be prepared to learn new subjects (e.g. associated with hydrology and behavioural ecology). Other skills include the ability to work well with others; fluency in English and experience of technical writing in English; ability to handle multiple complex tasks simultaneously and stick to deadlines; ability to work to a high level of accuracy and precision under laboratory conditions; hold a full drivers licence; be able to prepare high-quality scientific reports and presentations as required.

The successful candidate will join a team of researchers at the International Centre for Ecohydraulics Research (ICER: www.icer.soton.ac.uk) at the Faculty of Engineering and the Environment and will receive training and gain experience in a range of techniques associated with this research area.

Applications for this PhD research project are accepted on a rolling basis and we therefore advise you to apply early if you are interested. To make your application please go to: http://www.southampton.ac.uk/engineering/postgraduate/research_degrees/apply.page