PhD Studentship: From Soil to Signature: Chemical Markers of Deforestation in Global Food Supply Chains, CASE project with Fera Science

This PhD project at the University of East Anglia addresses the urgent global issue of deforestation, which threatens biodiversity and accelerates climate change by removing essential carbon sinks. In response to new EU Deforestation Regulations, the research aims to develop advanced analytical methodologies for detecting chemical and isotopic markers in Forest Risk Commodities (FRCs) such as soy, palm oil, and coffee. These markers can provide evidence of land-use changes, such as forest clearing and burning, and help verify the origins of FRCs to support deforestation-free supply chains. As a doctoral researcher, you will receive comprehensive training in instrumental techniques, including stable isotope analysis and high-throughput spectroscopic methods, using state-of-the-art equipment at the UEA Science Analytical Facilities. The project also emphasizes data science skills, including multivariate analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, to interpret complex datasets and extract meaningful patterns related to geographic origin and land-use history. You will be part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community, benefiting from supervision across the Schools of Chemistry, Pharmacy & Pharmacology, and Environmental Sciences. The program includes two three-month secondments at Fera Science in York, where you will gain hands-on experience with complementary instrumentation and expertise in food authenticity. Regular opportunities to present your work at academic meetings and network with industry and non-academic stakeholders, such as World Forest ID, are integral to the experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemical or environmental analysis, numeracy, and preferably experience in mathematical or statistical programming. Entry requirements include a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree in a relevant subject and English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). The position is full-time, starting on 1 October 2026. Funding is provided through a fully-funded ARIES studentship, covering tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training and support grant. International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived, but relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs are not covered. For informal enquiries, contact the primary supervisor, Prof Kate Kemsley.