The University of Plymouth Marine Institute is offering a funded PhD opportunity focused on the use of light in UK fisheries and its effect on the marine environment, specifically targeting sustainable scallop fishing. This innovative project explores how illuminated fishing pots, developed by Fishtek Marine, can attract king scallops in commercial quantities, potentially providing a low-impact alternative to traditional dredging methods. The research aims to answer key questions about the mechanisms of light attraction, the ecological effects on scallop populations and non-target species, and the overall sustainability of this approach compared to conventional techniques. As a PhD student, you will engage in cutting-edge research involving fieldwork, experimentation, and ecological modelling. The findings will have direct implications for fisheries management, conservation strategies, and the global adoption of low-impact fishing gear. The project is highly collaborative, involving teams from the University of Plymouth, Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, and Fishtek Marine. You will gain hands-on experience aboard research and fishing vessels, working in a real-world research environment. Supervisors for this project include Dr Bryce Stewart (Marine Biological Association & University of Plymouth), Dr Thomas Davies (University of Plymouth), Professor Tim Smyth (Plymouth Marine Laboratory), Dr Rob Enever, Dr Harry Thatcher, and Mr Tom Hooper (Fishtek Marine). The research is based in the United Kingdom and leverages the expertise of leading marine science institutions. Applicants should have a background in marine ecology, fisheries science, conservation biology, or related fields, with experience in fieldwork and modelling considered advantageous. The position is fully funded, covering tuition and providing a stipend, though specific financial details are not listed. The application deadline is December 28, 2025. Interested candidates should visit the University of Plymouth Marine Institute website for the full advert and application instructions. Keywords: marine science, sustainable fisheries, scallop fishing, marine ecology, conservation, fishing technology, low-impact seafood, fieldwork, modelling, marine environment.

[The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes Home or International tuition fees plus a stipend of £20,780 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.] PhD Studentship – Marine Sciences: Benefits and Impacts of Use of Light in UK Fisheries and their Wider Effect on the Marine Environment The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year fully funded PhD studentship within its renowned Marine Institute, starting 1st October 2026. This project investigates the use of light in UK fisheries, particularly its benefits and impacts on the marine environment, with a focus on innovative methods such as the Fishtek Marine scallop pot. This world-first technology uses lights inside adapted crab and lobster pots to attract king scallops, potentially offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional dredging methods. The research will address key questions about how lights attract scallops, the effects on scallop stocks and other marine species, and the broader ecosystem implications. The successful candidate will employ a combination of data analysis, aquarium and field-based experiments, and population modelling to explore: Cascade effects of pot lights on scallops and other marine species using remote cameras Effects of lights on scallop movement using tagging in relation to density and environmental conditions Effects of lights on scallop reproduction and population dynamics Through this research, the student will develop advanced skills in data analysis, experimental design, and population modelling, as well as gain hands-on experience working on research and fishing vessels. Professional development opportunities include presenting at national and international conferences, media training, and co-authoring publications. This training will prepare graduates for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, and resource management. Supervision Team: Dr Bryce Stewart (Lead Supervisor), Dr Thomas Davies, Professor Tim Smyth, Dr Rob Enever, Dr Harry Thatcher, and Mr Tom Hooper (Fishtek Marine). Funding: The studentship covers Home or International tuition fees and provides a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC) for 3.5 years. The final 6 months of the four-year registration period are self-funded for writing-up. 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, fisheries, and conservation are essential. Willingness to participate in boat-based fieldwork is required; a SCUBA diving qualification is desirable but not essential. Application Process: Apply via the University of Plymouth studentships page by 12 noon on 2nd February 2026. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Bryce Stewart. Join a vibrant community of marine researchers at the University of Plymouth and contribute to pioneering research in sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystem management.

The University of Plymouth invites applications for three 3.5-year PhD studentships within the Marine Institute, starting October 2026. This project, 'Benefits and Impacts of Use of Light in UK Fisheries and Their Wider Effect on the Marine Environment,' is one of eight topics considered for three studentships, with allocation based on candidate-project fit after interviews. Plymouth is renowned for its marine research excellence and offers a vibrant community for marine PhD students. The research investigates the increasing use of lights in marine environments to enhance catches of fish and shellfish, focusing on the innovative scallop pot developed by Fishtek Marine. This method uses lights inside adapted crab and lobster pots to attract king scallops, potentially offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional dredging. The project aims to address key questions about the ecological effects of this fishing method, including its impact on scallop stocks, other marine species, and the broader ecosystem. Research topics include: cascade effects of pot lights on scallops and other species using remote cameras; effects of lights on scallop movement via tagging in relation to density and environmental conditions; and effects of lights on scallop reproduction and population dynamics. The successful candidate will gain expertise in data analysis, experimental design in aquarium and field settings, and population modelling. Professional development opportunities include working on research and fishing vessels, presenting at national and international events, media training, and co-authoring publications. Supervision is provided by Dr. Bryce Stewart (Lead Supervisor), Dr. Thomas Davies, Professor Tim Smyth, Dr. Rob Enever, Dr. Harry Thatcher, and Mr. Tom Hooper (Fishtek Marine). Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification, possess strong analytical skills, and have an interest in biodiversity, fisheries, and conservation. Willingness to participate in boat-based fieldwork is essential; a SCUBA diving qualification is desirable but not required. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme's minimum English requirements (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component). Funding covers full Home or International tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate (2026/27 rate to be confirmed; 2025/26 rate is £20,780 per annum). The final six months of the four-year registration period are self-funded. No additional funding is available for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa costs, or flights. To apply, submit your application online with a 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, 2 February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be notified after the deadline, with interviews expected in March. For further information, contact [email protected].

[Studentship covers 3.5 years of Home or International tuition fees plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed). Last 6 months of the four-year registration period is self-funded for writing-up.] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship in Marine Sciences, focusing on the benefits and impacts of using light in UK fisheries and their wider effect on the marine environment. This opportunity is part of the Marine Institute, renowned for its century-long leadership in global marine research and home to the largest concentration of marine researchers in the UK. The studentship is fully funded for Home or International students, covering tuition fees and providing a generous stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed). The final six months of the four-year registration period are self-funded for writing-up. The project investigates the innovative use of lights in marine fisheries, particularly the development of the scallop pot by Fishtek Marine, which uses lights inside adapted crab and lobster pots to attract king scallops (Pecten maximus) in commercial quantities. This method is considered to have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional dredging and has garnered international interest. Despite its promise, the ecological effects of light-based fishing methods on scallop stocks, other marine species, and the broader ecosystem remain largely unexplored. Research topics include: Cascade effects of pot lights on scallops and other marine species using remote cameras Effects of lights on scallop movement using tagging, considering density and environmental conditions Impacts of lights on scallop reproduction and population dynamics The successful candidate will develop expertise in data analysis, experimental design (both aquarium and field-based), and population modelling. Professional development opportunities include working on research and fishing vessels, presenting at national and international conferences, media training, and co-authoring publications. This comprehensive training prepares graduates for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, conservation, and resource management. Eligibility requirements include a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification, strong analytical skills, and a keen interest in biodiversity, fisheries, and conservation. Willingness to participate in boat-based fieldwork is essential, and a SCUBA diving qualification is desirable but not mandatory. Applications are open until 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026. For informal discussions about the project, prospective candidates may contact Dr Bryce Stewart. To apply, visit the University of Plymouth's research studentships page and follow the application instructions.