The Impact of Peatland Rewetting on Invertebrate and Microbial Assemblages Manchester Metropolitan University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Manchester Metropolitan University investigates the ecological benefits of peatland restoration, focusing on upland areas within the Peak District National Park. Healthy peatlands are crucial for carbon sequestration, climate regulation, water management, and biodiversity, yet 80% of UK peatlands are degraded, threatening these ecosystem services. Over the past 15 years, restoration interventions such as gully blocking, bunding, and rewetting have created thousands of ponds and bogs to raise water tables and reduce erosion. Despite substantial investment, the long-term biological impacts of these efforts remain poorly understood.

The research aims to quantify biodiversity and ecosystem changes resulting from peatland restoration. The student will conduct a comprehensive literature review on restoration success in the UK, select peatland sites representing a range of restoration timelines and interventions, and collect field data to assess biodiversity gains and losses. Key bioindicator groups, including freshwater and terrestrial invertebrates and microbial communities, will be studied alongside environmental factors. Detailed laboratory taxonomy of invertebrate samples and analysis of water and soil parameters will be performed, with statistical evaluation of the ecological and functional outcomes of rewetting schemes to evidence spatial and temporal patterns.

Findings from this project will inform future policy, guide land management practices, and support stakeholders such as conservation organisations, private landowners, and the water industry in making data-driven decisions for sustainable peatland recovery. The student will benefit from access to the university’s new £117M Dalton building and specialist laboratory facilities.

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 in tuition fees. A standard UKRI stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26) is provided for the duration of the award.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, with experience in upland peatland fieldwork, stakeholder engagement, and research within conservation organisations. Physical fitness for remote fieldwork, knowledge of upland ecosystem services, and awareness of social and political aspects of land management are essential. Desirable skills include environmental sample collection, experience in environmental pollution/analysis, and practical laboratory experience with chromatography and mass spectrometry.

To apply, contact Dr. Scott Pedley for an informal discussion, then 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, quoting reference SciEng-SP-October 2026-27-Peatland Biodiversity Trajectories. The application deadline is 19 March 2026, with an expected start date in October 2026.