Optimising Peatland Recovery Across Fragmented Landscapes: Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Enhancement Manchester Metropolitan University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Manchester Metropolitan University investigates how peatland restoration can be optimised to improve the recovery of aquatic ecosystems in upland landscapes, with a particular focus on the Peak District National Park. Healthy peatlands are vital for carbon storage, climate regulation, water purification, and biodiversity support, yet around 80% of UK peatlands are degraded due to historic pollution, drainage, and grazing. Over the past 15 years, restoration efforts have re‑wetted peatlands through gully blocking and revegetation, creating thousands of small pools and altering hydrology and habitat structure. Despite these interventions, the ecological outcomes remain poorly understood, and there is limited innovation aimed at enhancing biodiversity.

The project will employ both experimental and observational methods to test whether seeding aquatic vegetation improves ecological recovery and how the spatial arrangement of restored pools influences biodiversity and ecosystem function. By assessing key ecological indicators, the research will provide evidence to guide future restoration approaches, supporting policy development and helping land managers, conservation organisations, and the water industry improve peatland management across the UK.

Project aims and objectives include quantifying how landscape fragmentation and ecological starting conditions influence the recovery of aquatic peatland biodiversity. The student will review current knowledge on aquatic biodiversity recovery in restored peatlands, emphasising dispersal limits, vegetation interventions, and food‑web dynamics. Replicated rewetting and control sites will be selected across varied timelines and landscape configurations. Biological and environmental data will be collected to assess how spatial isolation affects colonisation and community composition in rewetted pools. Experimental studies will be conducted on vegetation seeding and its effects on biodiversity and food‑web complexity. Detailed invertebrate taxonomy and analysis of water and soil parameters will be undertaken, and statistical and spatial modelling will be used to identify optimal configurations and treatments for future rewetting schemes.

The student will have access to specialist laboratory facilities in the new £117M Dalton building. Funding is available for both Home and International students; Home tuition fees (£5,006/year for 2025/26) are covered for three years, while international students must pay the difference. A standard UKRI stipend (£20,780/year for 2025/26) is provided for the duration of the award.

Applicants must have a strong academic background in biology, geography, or environmental science, with essential experience in upland peatland fieldwork, laboratory/field analysis of water quality and peat sediments, and working with landowners and conservation bodies. Physical capability to work in remote, rugged environments, knowledge of upland ecosystem services, conservation challenges, and practical interventions, as well as familiarity with social and political dimensions of upland management, are required. A track record in research or monitoring within a conservation-focused organisation is expected. Desirable skills include knowledge of UK peatland-relevant environmental policy, macroinvertebrate identification, community-level statistical analysis, remote sensing, GIS, spatial analysis, and microscopy for algal identification.

To apply, contact Dr. Scott Pedley ([email protected]) for an informal discussion. Complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Biological Science, submit the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, CV, and covering letter via the University’s Admissions Portal, and ensure your documents demonstrate your skills and experience relevant to the project. The application deadline is 19 March 2026, with an expected start date in October 2026.