Optimising Aerial Image Analysis for Beach Litter Characterisation and Quantification (Ref: CENTA2026-LU09) Loughborough University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Loughborough University aims to optimise aerial image analysis for the characterisation and quantification of beach litter, building on the university’s extensive research into marine litter, including the '50 Years of Litter on Skye' initiative. The research responds to a three-year marine litter monitoring campaign on the Isle of Skye and involves collaboration with community partners across Scotland’s west coast. The project is highly interdisciplinary, integrating environmental science, engineering, and community science methodologies.

The successful candidate will evaluate the efficacy and suitability of digital image collection and analysis for beach litter characterisation, focusing on heavily-littered coastlines. The research will assess the practicality of various image capture techniques, including the use of drones and mobile phones, and explore the potential of different sensor types such as RGB and multispectral sensors.

Image analysis will involve both manual digital approaches (e.g., Dot Dot Goose) and the development of automated computer vision algorithms for marine litter characterisation and quantification. The project is designed to enhance marine litter monitoring methods and support community-led environmental initiatives. The studentship is partially funded by NERC and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025/26), UK tuition fees for 3.5 years, and a Research Training Support Grant of £8,000. International candidates are eligible, with the university covering the difference between UK and international tuition fees for successful applicants, subject to UKRI funding rules.

Applicants should have at least a 2:1 degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Geography, Environmental Science, Computer Science, or Engineering, and must meet the university’s English language requirements. The position is available full-time (3.5 years) or part-time (7 years), with a start date in October 2026. Applications close on January 7th, 2026, and interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held in February 2026. For application instructions, candidates should complete the CENTA studentship application form and apply online, quoting the reference number CENTA2026-LU09.