The University of Plymouth Marine Institute is offering a funded PhD opportunity focused on reducing plastic pollution in fisheries through innovation, science, and stakeholder collaboration. This transdisciplinary project addresses one of the most pressing environmental challenges—plastic use in fisheries, which contributes to ghost fishing, microplastics, and marine ecosystem threats. The research aims to develop sustainable, plastic-free solutions for the fishing industry using natural materials, with direct relevance to policy, industry innovation, and global sustainability goals. The PhD is co-developed with fishers, marine managers, and policymakers, ensuring that the research is both scientifically rigorous and practically implementable. Collaborators include DEFRA, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), and the Association of IFCAs (AIFCA), alongside expert stakeholders from across the industry. Supervisors include Dr Sarah Gall, Professor Sian Rees, Professor Emma Sheehan, Professor Richard Thompson, Simon Pengelly, Dr Aisling Lannin, and Dr Rob Cook, representing leading expertise in marine science, conservation, and policy. Applicants should have a strong background in environmental science, marine biology, or related fields, and a passion for marine conservation, sustainability innovation, and research with policy impact. The project supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), advances sustainable fisheries, and contributes to a cleaner, healthier ocean. Funding is provided, though specific financial details are not listed. The position is based at the University of Plymouth, one of Europe's largest marine and maritime research portfolios. To apply, visit the University of Plymouth website for the full advert and application instructions. The opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to make a meaningful difference in marine conservation and sustainability through research and stakeholder engagement.

[The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes Home or International tuition fees plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed).] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship focused on developing innovative solutions to reduce ghost fishing and plastic pollution in fisheries. Hosted by the Marine Institute, this project is part of a vibrant research community at the forefront of global marine science. The studentship is fully funded for both Home and International students, covering tuition fees and providing a competitive stipend (£20,780 per annum at the 2025-26 rate, with the 2026-27 rate to be confirmed). This transdisciplinary PhD project addresses urgent environmental challenges, including the accumulation of plastics in the ocean and their impact on planetary health. The research will contribute directly to policy and practice, aiming to reduce plastic production and its environmental footprint, particularly from the fishing industry. The project will investigate the risks posed by fishing gear, such as ghost fishing and microplastic generation, and will seek to develop and test alternative gear using natural materials. Key research activities include reviewing the global use of natural materials in marine applications, testing their durability and suitability, collaborating with fishers to design and trial new gear, and employing socio-ecological modelling to assess ecological and economic outcomes of transitioning away from plastics. The student will also identify regulatory pathways and develop actionable recommendations for positive change in fisheries management. The successful candidate will join the Marine Conservation Research Group, gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities, technical support, and comprehensive training in laboratory, field, and analytical techniques. The project is supported by partnerships with Defra, the MMO, AIFCA, and other key stakeholders, ensuring that the research has real-world impact and relevance. Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject, such as marine or environmental sciences, or possess a related Masters qualification. Experience or knowledge in fisheries management and a strong motivation to contribute to fisheries sustainability are highly desirable. The studentship is set to begin on 1st October 2026. For further information and to apply, visit the University of Plymouth's research studentships webpage. The application deadline is 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026.

The University of Plymouth invites applications for three 3.5-year PhD studentships within the Marine Institute, focusing on developing innovative solutions to reduce ghost fishing and plastic pollution in fisheries. This project is part of a broader initiative, with eight research topics considered for three studentships, and aims to allocate positions based on the best candidate-project fit following interviews. Plymouth is renowned for its global marine research leadership and hosts the largest concentration of marine researchers in the UK. The successful candidate will join the vibrant Marine Conservation Research Group, gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities, technical support, and comprehensive training in laboratory, field, and analytical techniques. The PhD project is transdisciplinary and policy-relevant, addressing the urgent issue of plastic pollution in the marine environment, particularly from fishing gear. The research will contribute to the global effort to mitigate the Triple Planetary Crisis by exploring ways to reduce plastic production and accumulation in the ocean. The fishing industry is a significant source of marine plastic pollution, with ghost fishing and microplastics from degraded gear posing threats to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Supported by partnerships with academia, fishers, marine managers, Defra, MMO, and AIFCA, the project aims to fill critical evidence gaps and inform the development of viable solutions for reducing plastic pollution in fisheries. The student will conduct field, laboratory, and modelling studies, working closely with stakeholders to: Review global use of natural materials in marine applications and identify key gear types. Test the durability and suitability of natural materials for fishing gear. Collaborate with fishers to develop and test gear that meets fisheries requirements while minimizing plastic pollution and ghost fishing risks. Use socio-ecological modelling to evaluate ecological and economic outcomes of transitioning away from plastics in the industry. Identify regulatory pathways and develop recommendations for positive change. Eligibility requirements include a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification, with preference for candidates in marine or environmental sciences and those knowledgeable in fisheries management. Applicants must demonstrate a passion for sustainability in fisheries. Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component). Funding covers full Home or International tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate for 3.5 years (2026/27 rate to be confirmed; 2025/26 rate is £20,780 per annum). The final six months of the four-year registration period are self-funded for writing-up. No additional funding is available for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa costs, or travel. To apply, submit your application online with a CV, personal statement, degree certificates and transcripts, contact details for two academic referees, and proof of English language competency if required. The application deadline is 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be notified after the deadline, with interviews expected in March. For further information, contact the research admissions team at [email protected].

[3.5 years of support including Home or International tuition fees plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC).] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship focused on developing innovative solutions to reduce ghost fishing and plastic pollution in fisheries. Hosted by the Marine Institute, this opportunity places you at the heart of the UK's largest concentration of marine researchers and within the dynamic Marine Conservation Research Group. The project is supported by a partnership between academia, fishers, and marine managers, ensuring that your research will have direct policy relevance and real-world impact. This transdisciplinary PhD project addresses the urgent issue of plastic pollution, a major contributor to the Triple Planetary Crisis, and aims to protect planetary health and promote a sustainable future. The fishing industry is a significant source of plastic pollution, with lost or degraded fishing gear causing ghost fishing and generating microplastics that accumulate in marine environments. Despite the importance of preventing biodiversity loss and reducing plastic pollution, the risks posed by plastics in fisheries have been largely overlooked. As a PhD student, you will conduct field, laboratory, and modelling studies, working closely with stakeholders to: Review the global use of natural materials in marine applications, both historic and current, and identify key gear types for focus. Test the durability and suitability of natural materials for fishing gear. Collaborate with fishers to develop and test gear that meets fisheries requirements while reducing risks from plastic pollution and ghost fishing. Use socio-ecological modelling to evaluate ecological and economic outcomes of transitioning away from plastics in the industry. Identify regulatory pathways and develop recommendations for positive change. You will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, technical support, and comprehensive training in laboratory, field, and analytical techniques. The project is further strengthened by partnerships with Defra, the MMO, AIFCA, and expert stakeholders, including fishers, to maximize research impact. Eligibility: Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject or a relevant Masters qualification. Candidates with a background in marine or environmental sciences and knowledge of fisheries management are particularly encouraged to apply. A passion for making a positive impact on fisheries sustainability is highly valued. Funding: The studentship covers full Home or International tuition fees and provides a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed) for 3.5 years. Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the University of Plymouth studentships webpage by 12 noon on Monday 2nd February 2026. For informal discussions about the project, prospective applicants may contact Dr Sarah Gall. Join a vibrant community of marine PhD students and contribute to cutting-edge research with direct policy and industry relevance, helping to shape a sustainable future for global fisheries.