PhD Studentship: Assessing the Eco-hydrological and Geomorphic Effects of Floodplain Restoration Newcastle University in United Kingdom

[100% fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate). Additional project costs provided. Funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).]

PhD Studentship: Assessing the Eco-hydrological and Geomorphic Effects of Floodplain Restoration

Newcastle University invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the eco-hydrological and geomorphic impacts of floodplain restoration. This project is supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and offers 100% coverage of tuition fees, a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate), and additional project costs.

The research centers on the Mar floodplain near Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park, building on previous monitoring to assess a broader area. The project will employ repeated detailed topographical surveys using differential GPS (dGPS) to quantify geomorphic changes. Hydrological monitoring will include pre- and post-restoration water table measurements using an established and expanded network of piezometers. Additional data collection will cover soil moisture and groundwater oxygen concentrations, providing a comprehensive understanding of floodplain processes.

Vegetation monitoring will involve establishing new quadrats in representative communities to assess the distribution of vascular and non-vascular plants. Hydrological modeling will simulate the impacts of restoration under current and future climate scenarios, enabling predictions of vegetation responses and ecosystem service provision. The project will provide opportunities for fieldwork and collaboration with the James Hutton Institute, CEH, and UCL.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject (e.g., computing, mathematics, engineering, environmental science). Essential skills include independent research ability, analytical skills, and strong communication. Both UK and international candidates (including EU) are eligible. Non-native English speakers require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each sub-skill). International applicants may need an ATAS certificate for visa purposes.

The studentship will start on 1st October 2026 and run for 3.5 years. Only one award is available. For more information, prospective applicants are encouraged to attend the webinar on 26th November or contact Professor Claire Walsh at [email protected]. Application deadline is 8th January 2026. Apply via the Newcastle University funding page linked below.

Application Link