This fully funded PhD studentship at Newcastle University, supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), investigates how the superficial geology of Gateshead and Newcastle influences groundwater flood risk and water contamination. The North East of England is characterized by a legacy of coal mining, with numerous abandoned and flooded mine seams. Groundwater levels in the region are at record highs, rising due to the cessation of mine water pumping and climate-driven changes in rainfall, which pose significant flood risks to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Notably, the winter of 2015/2016 saw mine water flooding in Gateshead, affecting residential and commercial areas such as the Metrocentre Retail Park.

The region’s complex subsurface geology, particularly the Quaternary sediments deposited by the last British Ice Sheet, plays a crucial role in groundwater movement and flood potential. These sediments range from permeable glaciofluvial materials to impermeable lacustrine clays and glacial tills, and flooded mines can create unexpected pathways for groundwater to reach the surface. The project aims to develop a stronger conceptual understanding of the heterogeneity and connectivity of these sediments and the interface between bedrock and superficial deposits. This knowledge will inform hydrogeological models to identify groundwater recharge, routing, discharge, and potential contaminant concentration zones.

The successful candidate will collaborate with the British Geological Survey, Gateshead Council, Project Groundwater Northumbria, and the Mining Remediation Authority. The studentship covers 100% of tuition fees and provides a minimum annual tax-free living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate), with additional project costs supported. Applicants must hold or expect to obtain at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject, demonstrate enthusiasm for research, independence, analytical ability, and strong communication skills. Both home and international applicants are eligible, with full studentship support available.

Non-native English speakers require an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 in all sub-skills), and international applicants may need ATAS clearance. The application deadline is January 8, 2026, and the studentship will commence on October 1, 2026. For more information, a prospective applicant webinar is available via the provided link.