Dr G Polhill, Dr M Aitkenhead, Dr Andrew Jarvis
No more applications being accepted
Competition Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
The problem of linking spatially distributed resources to points of use is common to natural and human systems and fundamental to the performance of both. The solution to this ubiquitous problem is to develop resource distribution networks (RDNs) that attempt to minimize distribution costs whilst maximizing access to resources. Although it is widely understood that such networks are critical to the functioning of systems, how they evolve, what form they take and how they run in any given situation is poorly understood and modelled currently. Using two focused case studies this PhD will explore how real investments in network (infra)structure by humans and organisms are made in order to solve the problem of optimizing RDNs.
The two case studies we will investigate are: (i) the creation of soil structure by invertebrates, fungi and roots, (ii) the harvesting and distribution of crops and energy by farmers. The reasons these two case studies are relevant are that they both involve investing resources in developing spatially explicit RDNs; are both economically important issues in their own right; and are both systems where good spatial data is now available.
This research is both theoretical and applied and is designed around the specification and use and analysis of computer simulations of RDNs. In addition to being fascinating in its own right with potential to lead to high quality scientific publications, we expect this research will produce economically important intellectual property through developing new insights and methods for identifying, simulating, analyzing and ultimately optimizing RDNs. As a result, we anticipate this would be an excellent research training experience for the right candidate, opening up significant research opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
The Applicant
The successful applicant will, as a minimum, have a 2:i equivalent first degree in a STEM subject. They must be able to demonstrate competence in computer programming and statistical analysis, as well as the versatility to work across disciplines, and an interest in environmental issues. The candidate will need excellent presentation skills, and to be self-motivated and able to see a project through to its conclusion. Experience programming in Java, NetLogo, MatLab and/or R, especially in a Linux environment, is an advantage, as is knowledge of networks, soil ecology, the farming system, thermodynamics, control systems, agent-based modelling, or information theory.
Application Procedure
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter through the "email now" form below (on the findaphd.com website) by 5 January 2018. Candidates will be selected based on a two-step interview process. In the first step, we will choose our preferred candidate for this project. Candidates will need to be available the week of 8 January 2018 if they are invited for interview for the first step. In the second step, our preferred candidate will be competing with preferred candidates for other projects under The James Hutton Institute/University Joint Ph.D. Programme. These interviews will take place in late January/early February 2018. If awarded, the student will divide their time between Lancaster and The James Hutton Institute’s Craigiebuckler site in Aberdeen.
Funding Notes
The studentship is funded under the James Hutton Institute/University Joint PhD programme, in this case with the University of Lancaster's Lancaster Environment Centre. Applicants should have a first-class honours degree in a relevant subject or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent).Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in Jan/Feb 2018. A more detailed plan of the studentship is available to candidates upon application. Funding is available for European applications, but Worldwide applicants who possess suitable self-funding are also invited to apply
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