[Fully funded UKRI studentship via Flood-CDT for 3.5 years, tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum plus UK tuition fees. Excellent international candidates eligible for full international fee waiver; no more than 30% of studentships can be awarded to international candidates, but successful international candidates will have the difference between UK and international tuition fees covered by the university.]

Flooding is a growing concern under climate change, with intensified rainfall increasing risks across climate zones. In the UK, flood defences are often designed as static structures, yet rivers are dynamic systems that transport sediment, wood, and nutrients. This mismatch can result in underperforming flood assets, where sediment accumulation, blockage, or erosion reduces efficiency and amplifies flood hazards. Reservoirs and embankments, while vital for flood protection, may disrupt sediment connectivity, and their failure can deliver catastrophic pulses of water and sediment downstream.

This PhD project at Loughborough University will combine numerical simulations, field observations, and stakeholder engagement to address three core research questions: (1) How does sediment transport reduce the efficiency and resilience of flood assets, and how might this change under future climates? (2) What are the spatial patterns and drivers of sediment-related underperformance in UK flood assets, and how do these influence flood amplification? (3) How effective are emerging low-cost monitoring techniques (such as UAV surveys, citizen science, and remote sensing) in detecting and managing sediment retention?

By bridging geomorphology, engineering, and stakeholder perspectives, the project aims to deliver new insights into the role of sediment in shaping flood risk. Outcomes will inform asset management strategies, improve the sustainability of flood protection, and support climate adaptation policy. The studentship is part of the Centre for Doctoral Training for Resilient Flood Futures (FLOOD-CDT), offering opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.

Funding: The position is fully funded for 3.5 years through UKRI and Flood-CDT, providing a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum plus UK tuition fees. Excellent international candidates are eligible for a full international fee waiver, with the university covering the difference between UK and international tuition fees for successful candidates. No more than 30% of studentships can be awarded to international candidates due to UKRI rules.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold, or expect to soon graduate with, a very good undergraduate or master’s degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent international qualification from a high ranking university) in a relevant subject. English language requirements must be met, with further details available on the university’s international website. Applications are assessed on motivation, intellectual excellence, project suitability, and fit to FLOOD-CDT.

Application Process: Apply online via the Loughborough University website, selecting 'School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering' as the programme name and quoting advert reference FCDT-26-LU9. Prepare and upload a statement of research interests, CV, academic transcripts, degree certificates, and English language certificate if applicable. You are encouraged to contact supervisors by email for project-specific queries before applying. The application deadline is 8 January 2025.

For further details about FLOOD-CDT, visit https://flood-cdt.ac.uk. For general questions, contact [email protected].