Stress-testing Coupled Meteorological–Hydrological Models for Urban Resilience in Manchester
This PhD project at The University of Manchester aims to strengthen urban resilience by advancing the simulation of extreme weather and water-related hazards. By coupling high-resolution meteorological and hydrological models, the research will help cities like Manchester prepare for integrated water risks, including floods, droughts, and water quality challenges. Through stress-testing worst-case scenarios, the project will identify vulnerabilities in current understanding and support agencies in planning for future events.
Key research questions include improving multi-hazard estimation by driving hydrological models with dynamically modelled atmospheric precipitation, determining the spatial and temporal resolution needed for accurate hydrological forecasts, and understanding the predictability of extreme precipitation and hydrological events across the UK. The project also investigates factors influencing combined sewer overflows and the impact of multi-hazard events on rain-gauge undercatch and hydrological uncertainty.
This position is part of the Informatics for Multi-hazard Risk and Resilience (i-Risk) NERC Doctoral Focal Awards (DFA) in Environmental Sciences. i-Risk offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge informatics research, advancing tools and solutions for multi-hazard systemic risk resilience and sustainability. Doctoral researchers will benefit from a structured training programme, interdisciplinary research, and collaboration with industry, government agencies, and global organisations.
i-Risk builds on the strengths of four leading UK institutions, providing access to unparalleled facilities and over 70 multidisciplinary academic supervisors. The four core research themes are: observations, monitoring and understanding; modelling and understanding processes/risk; forecasting, prediction and early warning; and risk communication and management solutions.
Eligibility requires an excellent academic record (UK First-class or 2.1 honours or international equivalent) in Mathematics, Engineering, Earth Sciences, Computing, or related physical science disciplines. Applicants should have a strong quantitative background and be confident in Python or other programming languages. Required documents include a two-page personal statement, CV, academic transcripts and certificates, and contact details for two referees. English language certificate is needed if applicable.
The 3.5-year PhD studentship is funded by the NERC i-Risk DFA, open to Home (UK) and overseas students. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27, subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. The expected start date is October 2026. Early application is recommended as the advert may be removed before the deadline.
Applications must be submitted online via the university portal, quoting the advert reference IRISK-26-UOM03. Interviews are anticipated to be held remotely via Microsoft Teams in late June 2026. For project-specific questions, applicants are encouraged to contact supervisors by email. For general or technical questions, contact [email protected] or [email protected].
The University of Manchester is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, recognising that diversity strengthens the research community and enhances creativity, productivity, and impact.
