PhD in Conservation Science: Climate, Land Use, and Protected Area Effects on Migratory Waterbirds University of Essex in United Kingdom

The University of Essex School of Life Sciences is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the effects of climate, land use, and protected areas on the condition, behaviour, and distribution of migratory waterbirds. This conservation science project addresses how environmental and anthropogenic pressures impact Afro-Palearctic migratory waterbirds, particularly in the UK, which supports significant waterbird populations during the non-breeding season. The research aims to inform conservation strategies by examining the influence of land use, management, climate, and weather on the spatial distribution of protected waterbirds.

The project will utilize existing population and demographic monitoring data, with opportunities for bespoke field monitoring, international collaborations, tagging, and movement studies. Statistical modelling will be a key method for analyzing spatiotemporal changes in bird distributions in response to protection, land-use change, management, weather, and climate. The research will also scrutinize alternative approaches to assessing the ecological status of protected areas and address knowledge gaps regarding species diversity in different landscapes.

Candidates should have a background in ecology, statistical modelling, or geographic modelling, with interests in data science for conservation, evidence-led conservation policy, spatial animal ecology, land use change, or ornithology. The studentship is open to UK, EU, and international students. Funding covers full-time Home fees and a standard tax-free stipend (£20,780 in 2025-26; 2026-27 TBC), plus a research allowance. International applicants must cover the difference between Home and International fees. The application deadline is 13 April 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the University of Essex website.