PhD Studentship: Chemical Markers of Deforestation in Global Food Supply Chains (CASE project with Fera Science) University of East Anglia in United Kingdom

[Fully-funded studentship covering fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and research training and support grant (RTSG). International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived. ARIES funding does not cover relocation, visa, or health surcharge costs.]

This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia offers an exciting opportunity to investigate chemical and isotopic markers of deforestation in global food supply chains, as part of a CASE project with Fera Science. The research addresses the urgent issue of deforestation, which threatens biodiversity and accelerates climate change by removing vital carbon sinks. With the introduction of new EU Deforestation Regulations, there is a growing need to verify the origins of Forest Risk Commodities (FRCs) such as soy, palm oil, and coffee, ensuring supply chains are deforestation-free.

The project will employ advanced analytical methodologies to detect and identify chemical and isotopic signatures linked to land-use changes, such as forest clearing and burning. You will receive comprehensive training in instrumental techniques, including stable isotope analysis using specialised equipment at the UEA Science Analytical Facilities, and high-throughput spectroscopic methods suitable for large-scale sample screening and field deployment. The research also integrates data science approaches, including multivariate analysis, machine learning, and AI, to interpret complex datasets and extract meaningful patterns related to geographic origin and land-use history.

As a PhD student, you will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community, benefiting from supervision across the Schools of Chemistry, Pharmacy & Pharmacology, and Environmental Sciences. The project includes two 3-month secondments to Fera Science in York, where you will access complementary instrumentation and expertise within the Food Authenticity team. Collaboration with World Forest ID and other non-academic stakeholders will further enhance your networking and research experience.

Eligibility requirements include a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree in Chemistry, Earth/Environmental Sciences, Natural Sciences, Artificial Intelligence, or a related subject, with a strong numerate background and skills in chemical or environmental analysis. Experience in mathematical or statistical programming is highly desirable. English language proficiency is required (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).

The studentship is fully funded for eligible candidates, covering tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training and support grant (RTSG). International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived, but ARIES funding does not cover relocation, visa, or health surcharge costs.

Applications are open until 7 January 2027, with the programme starting on 1 October 2026. For further details and to apply, visit the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal. Informal enquiries are welcomed by the primary supervisor, Professor Kate Kemsley.