[Fully-funded ARIES studentship covering tuition fees, maintenance stipend of £20,780 per annum for 2025/26 (2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs.] This fully-funded PhD opportunity at the University of Plymouth focuses on the ecology of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs), with a particular emphasis on connecting functional diversity and ecosystem resilience. VMEs, such as deep-sea coral gardens and sponge fields, are recognized as biodiversity hotspots that provide essential ecosystem services through their complex structures. However, these habitats are increasingly threatened by human activities including fishing, resource extraction, and climate change. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of VME functional ecology and develop robust, science-based indicators of ecosystem health. By quantifying the functional diversity—the range of ecological roles species fulfill within a community—the research will help assess vulnerability and inform conservation strategies for VMEs. The outcomes will directly support international policy goals for deep-sea biodiversity protection. Research will employ a combination of seafloor visual surveys, targeted biological sampling, and AI-assisted image analyses. Key objectives include defining and quantifying functional traits of VME taxa, identifying major functional groups, mapping functional diversity, comparing it to taxonomic diversity, and developing indicators of ecosystem health and resilience across different VME types. Predictive spatial models will be built to forecast VME distribution and resilience under future climate scenarios. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in deep-sea survey techniques using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, image annotation (including AI-based approaches), functional trait analysis, taxonomic identification of deep-sea benthos, biodiversity metrics, and spatial predictive modelling. Professional development opportunities include participation in research cruises, collaboration with international scientists, scientific presentations, and co-authorship of publications beyond the PhD thesis. This training is designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, and resource management. Applicants should possess a first or upper second class honours degree in Biological or Environmental Science, or a relevant Masters qualification. Strong analytical skills and a keen interest in biodiversity, functional ecology, image/video analysis, and conservation are essential. Experience with programming, statistical analysis, or spatial modelling is desirable but not mandatory, as full training will be provided. Willingness to participate in multi-week ship-based fieldwork is welcomed but not required. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme’s minimum English language requirements (IELTS Academic score of 6.5, with no less than 5.5 in each component). Funding is provided through a fully-funded ARIES studentship, covering tuition fees, a maintenance stipend of £20,780 per annum for 2025/26 (2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs. The PhD studentship will commence on 1 October 2026 and run for 3.5 years. The application deadline is 7 January 2026. For further information or informal discussion about the project, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Kerry Howell at [email protected]. Applications should be submitted via the University of Plymouth ARIES Doctoral Training webpage, ensuring all supporting documents are uploaded as specified.

The University of Plymouth Marine Institute is offering a funded PhD opportunity focused on the protection and management of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) in a changing ocean. This research project centers on deep-sea coral gardens, sponge fields, and other VMEs, which are vital for biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem services. These habitats are increasingly threatened by bottom fishing and climate-driven changes, making their conservation a global priority. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of VME ecology, function, and management, supporting UN member states in safeguarding these critical habitats. Students will engage in innovative research at the intersection of marine ecology, conservation, and sustainable ocean policy, with the potential to make a significant impact on marine biodiversity and policy development. Supervision is provided by Professor Kerry Howell (University of Plymouth and Plymouth Marine Laboratory), Dr Angela Stevenson (Marine Biological Association), and Dr Bryce Stewart (Marine Biological Association and University of York), all leading experts in marine science and conservation. The research will be conducted within the Marine Research Plymouth Alliance, offering access to world-class facilities and collaborative networks. Applicants should have a strong background in marine ecology, biology, or environmental science, and a passion for marine conservation and innovation. The position is fully funded, though specific financial details are not disclosed in the post. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Marine Institute website for the full advert and application instructions. This opportunity is ideal for those seeking to contribute to the science and policy of ocean conservation, working alongside leading researchers in a dynamic and impactful environment.

This 3.5-year PhD studentship at the University of Plymouth, in partnership with Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Marine Biological Association, offers a unique opportunity to advance research on deep-sea Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs). VMEs, including coral gardens and sponge fields, are biodiversity hotspots that provide essential ecosystem services. The project aims to improve understanding of VME ecology and function, focusing on functional diversity and resilience, which are critical for effective conservation and fisheries management under current and future climate scenarios. Research activities will include seafloor visual surveys, targeted sampling, and AI-assisted image analysis to build predictive spatial models for VME distribution and resilience. The project will define and quantify functional traits of VME taxa, identify key functional groups, map functional diversity, and relate these findings to ecosystem service delivery. The candidate will also assess the potential for significant adverse impacts from fishing activities and develop climate-smart management recommendations. Training will cover deep-sea survey techniques using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, image annotation (including AI-based approaches), functional trait analysis, taxonomic identification of deep-sea benthos, biodiversity metrics, and spatial predictive modelling. Professional development opportunities include participation in research cruises, collaboration with international scientific organisations, and co-authorship of publications beyond the PhD thesis. This studentship prepares graduates for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, or resource management. Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification. Strong analytical skills and an interest in biodiversity, functional ecology, image/video analysis, and conservation are essential. Experience with programming, statistical analysis, or spatial modelling is desirable but not required, as full training will be provided. Willingness to participate in multi-week ship-based fieldwork is welcomed but not mandatory. Non-native English speakers must meet the minimum English language requirements (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component). The studentship covers full Home tuition fees and a stipend at the 2026/27 URS rate (to be confirmed; 2025/26 rate is £19,215 per annum) for 3.5 years. International applicants must pay the difference between Home and International tuition fees (£13,745 per annum at 2025/26 rate). No additional funding is available for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa costs, or travel. The final six months of the four-year registration period are self-funded for thesis writing. To apply, submit an online application including your CV, personal statement, degree certificates and transcripts, contact details for two academic referees, and proof of English language competency if applicable. The application deadline is 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be notified after the deadline, with interviews expected in late February. For informal project discussions, contact Professor Kerry Howell. For admissions queries, email [email protected].

[The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes Home rate tuition fees plus a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed). The last 6 months of the four-year registration period is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ period.] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship in Marine Sciences, focusing on the ecology, function, and management of deep-sea Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs). This project is part of Marine Research Plymouth, a collaborative partnership with the Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Marine Biological Association, and will commence on 1st October 2026. Plymouth is renowned for its vibrant marine research community and offers an excellent environment for doctoral training. VMEs, such as deep-sea coral gardens and sponge fields, are critical biodiversity hotspots that provide essential ecosystem services. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of VME ecology and function, and to develop evidence-based advice for fisheries management to prevent significant adverse impacts, particularly from bottom fishing activities. Central to the research is the concept of functional diversity—the range of ecological roles species play within a community—which is key to ecosystem resilience but remains poorly understood in VMEs. The successful candidate will employ a combination of seafloor visual surveys, targeted sampling, and AI-assisted image analyses to build predictive spatial models for VME distribution and resilience under current and future climate scenarios. The research will involve defining and quantifying functional traits of VME taxa, identifying key functional groups, mapping functional diversity, and relating these to ecosystem service delivery. The project will also assess the potential for significant adverse impacts from current fishing activities and provide recommendations for climate-smart management measures. Training will include deep-sea survey techniques using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, image annotation (including AI-based approaches), functional trait analysis, taxonomic identification of deep-sea benthos, biodiversity metrics, and spatial predictive modelling. The studentship offers opportunities for professional development through research cruises, collaboration with international scientific organisations, and co-authorship of additional publications. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, or resource management. Eligibility: Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification. Strong analytical skills and an interest in biodiversity, functional ecology, image/video analysis, and conservation are essential. Experience with programming, statistical analysis, or spatial modelling is desirable but not required, as full training will be provided. Willingness to participate in multi-week ship-based fieldwork is welcomed but not mandatory. Funding: The studentship covers Home rate tuition fees and provides a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed) for 3.5 years. The final 6 months of the four-year registration period is a self-funded writing-up period. Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the University of Plymouth website by 12 noon on Monday 2nd February 2026. For informal enquiries, contact Professor Kerry Howell.

[Fully-funded ARIES studentship covering fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26; 2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs.] This fully-funded PhD opportunity at the University of Plymouth focuses on the ecology of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs), with a particular emphasis on connecting functional diversity and ecosystem resilience. VMEs, including deep-sea coral gardens and sponge fields, are recognized as biodiversity hotspots that provide essential ecosystem services but are increasingly threatened by human activities such as fishing, resource extraction, and climate change. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of VME functional ecology and develop robust, science-based indicators of ecosystem health. By quantifying the range of ecological roles species fulfill within these communities, the research will help assess vulnerability and inform conservation strategies, directly supporting international policy goals for deep-sea biodiversity protection. Methodologically, the research will integrate seafloor visual surveys, targeted biological sampling, and AI-assisted image analysis to define and quantify functional traits of VME taxa. The candidate will identify key functional groups, map functional diversity, compare it to taxonomic diversity, and develop indicators of ecosystem health and resilience across different VME types. Predictive spatial models will be built to forecast VME distribution and resilience under future climate scenarios. Training will be comprehensive, including deep-sea survey techniques using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, image annotation (including AI-based approaches), functional trait analysis, taxonomic identification of deep-sea benthos, biodiversity metrics, and spatial predictive modelling. Professional development opportunities include participation in research cruises, collaboration with international scientists, presentations at scientific conferences, and co-authorship of publications beyond the PhD thesis. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, with strong analytical skills and a keen interest in biodiversity, functional ecology, image/video analysis, and conservation. While experience with programming, statistical analysis, or spatial modelling is desirable, full training will be provided. Willingness to participate in multi-week ship-based fieldwork is welcomed but not required. Eligibility requirements include a first or upper second class honours degree in Biological or Environmental Science or a relevant Masters qualification. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the minimum English language requirements for the programme (IELTS Academic score of 6.5, with no less than 5.5 in each component test area, or equivalent). Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded ARIES studentship, which covers tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26; 2026/27 rate to be confirmed), and research costs. The studentship lasts for 3.5 years, starting on 1 October 2026. For informal discussions about the project, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Kerry Howell at [email protected]. Applications should be submitted via the University of Plymouth ARIES Doctoral Training webpage, with all required supporting documents uploaded. The application deadline is 7 January 2026.

[Full Home rate tuition fees plus a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC) for 3.5 years. The last 6 months of the four-year registration period is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ period.] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a fully funded 3.5-year PhD studentship in Marine Sciences, focusing on Deep-Sea Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) and their ecology, function, and management. This opportunity is part of Marine Research Plymouth, a collaborative partnership with the Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Marine Biological Association, offering access to the UK's largest concentration of marine researchers and a vibrant community of PhD students. The project centers on VMEs such as deep-sea coral gardens and sponge fields, which are biodiversity hotspots providing essential ecosystem services. The research aims to advance understanding of VME ecology and functional diversity, which is crucial for ecosystem resilience and effective conservation. The project will develop science-based advice for fisheries management to prevent significant adverse impacts, in line with UN requirements for protecting VMEs from bottom fishing activities. Research activities will include seafloor visual surveys, targeted sampling, and AI-assisted image analyses. The student will build predictive spatial models for VME distribution and resilience under current and future climate scenarios, define and quantify functional traits of VME taxa, identify key functional groups, map functional diversity, and relate findings to ecosystem service delivery. The project will also assess the potential for significant adverse impacts from fishing and advise on climate-smart management measures. Training will cover deep-sea survey techniques using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles, image annotation (including AI-based approaches), functional trait analysis, taxonomic identification of deep-sea benthos, biodiversity metrics, and spatial predictive modelling. Professional development includes participation in research cruises, collaboration with international scientific organisations, and co-authorship of additional publications, preparing the candidate for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, or resource management. Eligibility requires a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills and an interest in biodiversity, functional ecology, image/video analysis, and conservation. Experience with programming, statistical analysis, or spatial modelling is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided. Willingness to participate in multi-week ship-based fieldwork is welcomed but not required. The studentship covers full Home tuition fees and a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed) for 3.5 years. The final 6 months of the four-year registration period is a self-funded writing-up period. The position is due to start on 1st October 2026. For informal discussions, applicants may contact Professor Kerry Howell. Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026 via the University of Plymouth website.