PhD Studentship: Swamped – Assessing the Threat of Crassula helmsii to Wetland Biodiversity University of Plymouth in United Kingdom

[Fully-funded ARIES studentship for 3.5 years, including tuition fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26, 2026/27 rate TBC), and research costs.]

Project Overview: This fully-funded PhD studentship at the University of Plymouth investigates the ecological impact of the invasive plant Crassula helmsii on wetland biodiversity, with a particular focus on invertebrate communities. Biological invasions are a major threat to global biodiversity, and European freshwaters have been especially affected by Crassula helmsii over the past three decades. While its effects on floristic diversity are well documented, the consequences for invertebrate diversity—especially those inhabiting seasonally flooded wetland margins—remain poorly understood.

Research Context: The project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding how Crassula alters community composition and ecosystem function in wetlands. Previous research suggests that fully aquatic macroinvertebrate diversity and biomass may not decline drastically following invasion, but the impact on specialist wetland invertebrates is unknown. This research will provide urgently needed quantitative data to inform conservation management and policy decisions.

Methodology: The successful candidate will employ a combination of fieldwork and laboratory experiments in established study sites, building on prior investigations of aquatic communities. The project will use advanced experimental design and biostatistical analyses to assess the mechanistic bases for the spread and control of invasive species. Training will be provided in freshwater invertebrate biology, experimental design, and both univariate and multivariate ecological data analysis.

Training & Development: The studentship offers comprehensive training, including hands-on fieldwork with experienced scientists, opportunities to act as a university demonstrator, and dissemination of research findings through written and oral presentations. The skills and competencies developed will enhance employability across a wide range of sectors.

Funding: The ARIES studentship covers full tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26, with the 2026/27 rate to be confirmed), and research costs for 3.5 years.

Eligibility & Requirements: Applicants must hold a first or upper second class honours degree in Biological or Environmental Science or a relevant Masters qualification. Experience in invertebrate taxonomy and identification is desirable but not essential, as is training in biostatistics. Candidates should be keen to conduct fieldwork, be numerate and literate, and ideally possess a UK-valid driving licence. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme's minimum English language requirements (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, no less than 5.5 in each component).

Application Process: Applications should be submitted via the University of Plymouth ARIES Doctoral Training webpage. Required supporting documents must be uploaded as specified. The application deadline is 7 January 2026, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview after the deadline. For informal enquiries, contact Professor David Bilton at [email protected].

Key Dates: Application deadline: 7 January 2026. Studentship start date: 1 October 2026.