An exciting PhD opportunity is available at Lancaster University, supervised by Professor David Johnson and Dr. Barbara Mable (University of Glasgow), focusing on the role of soil fungal networks in enhancing the resilience of grasslands to drought and insect pests. This project is funded by the BBSRC NorthWest Bio doctoral training network and is part of the Plant Health, Resilience, Yield and Growth research theme. The research aims to understand how root-associated mycorrhizal fungi form common networks that connect multiple plants, facilitating the acquisition and distribution of essential nutrients and water, and regulating plant defense mechanisms against herbivores. Despite their importance, the extent and ecological function of these fungal networks in natural grasslands, especially regarding their role in plant community resilience to environmental stressors like drought and herbivory, remain poorly understood. The successful candidate will design and conduct field experiments to manipulate the formation of mycorrhizal networks and apply treatments simulating insect herbivory and drought. The project is interdisciplinary, offering training in molecular biology, isotope tracer techniques, soil biochemistry, and animal, plant, and fungal ecology. The outcomes will contribute to a deeper understanding of grassland ecosystem functioning and have implications for conservation, agriculture, and bioscience careers. Applicants should have a strong background in biological or environmental sciences, with skills or interest in molecular biology, ecology, or soil science. The program typically requires a good undergraduate degree (2:1 or equivalent) and may require English language proficiency for international applicants. Funding covers tuition and a stipend as per UKRI rates. For more information and to apply, visit the NorthWest Bio doctoral training network website. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in plant-microbe interactions, ecosystem resilience, and interdisciplinary biosciences research.

Are you passionate about sustainability, soil science, and circular economy solutions in the construction sector? Lancaster University is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity at the Lancaster Environment Centre, supported by the EPSRC, focused on 'Building Circular Futures for Soil in Construction.' This project aligns with the World Soil Day theme: Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities. Each year, millions of tonnes of soil are excavated from UK construction sites, with much ending up in landfill. This PhD will investigate strategies to reduce soil disturbance, increase re-use, and prevent losses to landfill through data analysis, fieldwork, and laboratory studies. You will work with a multidisciplinary supervisory team: Professor Jessica Davies (Sustainability), Professor David Johnson (Ecology), Professor John Quinton (Environmental Science), and industry partner Will Rundle (Nexus ReGen). The project aims to design practical strategies for a more circular and sustainable construction industry, turning soil from a waste product into a valued resource and shaping better policy and practice. The studentship covers UK tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26) for 3.5 years. Only UK/Home students are eligible for funding. Applicants should have a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in a relevant field (environmental science, engineering, etc.), with experience in quantitative analysis, fieldwork, and lab work considered advantageous. Enthusiasm, independence, self-motivation, curiosity, and strong communication skills are preferred. Applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged. If English is not your first language, proficiency evidence will be required if offered a place. To apply, download and complete the LEC Funded PhD Application Form and Reference Form. Submit your application form and CV to [email protected]. Send the reference form to two referees and have them forward it to the same email. Ensure all documents are submitted by the deadline: 6th February 2026. For further details, contact Professor Jess Davies at [email protected] or Professor David Johnson at [email protected]. Research keywords: soil science, circular economy, sustainability, construction, environmental engineering, landfill reduction, policy, data analysis, fieldwork, lab studies.