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 ARIES studentship covering tuition fees, 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. Does not cover relocation, visa, or health surcharge costs.]

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

The University of East Anglia invites applications for a fully-funded PhD studentship investigating the chemical and isotopic markers of deforestation in global food supply chains. This interdisciplinary project, led by Professor Kate Kemsley, addresses the urgent environmental challenge of deforestation, which threatens biodiversity and accelerates climate change. The research is closely aligned with the new EU Deforestation Regulations, focusing on Forest Risk Commodities (FRCs) such as soy, palm oil, and coffee.

Project Overview: The project aims to develop and apply advanced analytical methodologies to detect and identify chemical and isotopic signatures in FRCs that are indicative of land-use changes, such as forest clearing and burning. These markers can help verify the origins of commodities and support the development of deforestation-free supply chains. The research will involve both laboratory and computational approaches, including stable isotope analysis, high-throughput spectroscopy, and data science techniques such as multivariate analysis, machine learning, and AI.

Training and Collaboration: The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in instrumental and computational methods, working within the UEA Science Analytical Facilities. The project includes two 3-month secondments at Fera Science in York, providing access to additional instrumentation and expertise in food authenticity. Collaboration with World Forest ID and other stakeholders will offer further opportunities for networking and professional development.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) degree at 2:1 level in Chemistry, Earth/Environmental Sciences, Natural Sciences, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field. A strong numerate background and experience in chemical or environmental analysis are essential, with prior experience in mathematical or statistical programming highly desirable. English language proficiency at IELTS 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each category) is required.

Funding: The ARIES studentship provides full funding for eligible candidates, including 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 relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs are not covered.

Application Process: Applications should be submitted online via the University of East Anglia postgraduate research portal by 7 January 2025. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Professor Kate Kemsley for informal enquiries about the project.

This studentship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of environmental science, chemistry, and data science, with real-world impact on sustainable food supply chains and deforestation mitigation.