Emma Sheehan

The University of Plymouth Marine Institute is offering a funded PhD opportunity focused on reducing plastic pollution in fisheries through innovation, science, and stakeholder collaboration. This transdisciplinary project addresses one of the most pressing environmental challenges—plastic use in fisheries, which contributes to ghost fishing, microplastics, and marine ecosystem threats. The research aims to develop sustainable, plastic-free solutions for the fishing industry using natural materials, with direct relevance to policy, industry innovation, and global sustainability goals. The PhD is co-developed with fishers, marine managers, and policymakers, ensuring that the research is both scientifically rigorous and practically implementable. Collaborators include DEFRA, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), and the Association of IFCAs (AIFCA), alongside expert stakeholders from across the industry. Supervisors include Dr Sarah Gall, Professor Sian Rees, Professor Emma Sheehan, Professor Richard Thompson, Simon Pengelly, Dr Aisling Lannin, and Dr Rob Cook, representing leading expertise in marine science, conservation, and policy. Applicants should have a strong background in environmental science, marine biology, or related fields, and a passion for marine conservation, sustainability innovation, and research with policy impact. The project supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), advances sustainable fisheries, and contributes to a cleaner, healthier ocean. Funding is provided, though specific financial details are not listed. The position is based at the University of Plymouth, one of Europe's largest marine and maritime research portfolios. To apply, visit the University of Plymouth website for the full advert and application instructions. The opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to make a meaningful difference in marine conservation and sustainability through research and stakeholder engagement.

[The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes Home or International tuition fees plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate to be confirmed).] The University of Plymouth invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship focused on developing innovative solutions to reduce ghost fishing and plastic pollution in fisheries. Hosted by the Marine Institute, this project is part of a vibrant research community at the forefront of global marine science. The studentship is fully funded for both Home and International students, covering tuition fees and providing a competitive stipend (£20,780 per annum at the 2025-26 rate, with the 2026-27 rate to be confirmed). This transdisciplinary PhD project addresses urgent environmental challenges, including the accumulation of plastics in the ocean and their impact on planetary health. The research will contribute directly to policy and practice, aiming to reduce plastic production and its environmental footprint, particularly from the fishing industry. The project will investigate the risks posed by fishing gear, such as ghost fishing and microplastic generation, and will seek to develop and test alternative gear using natural materials. Key research activities include reviewing the global use of natural materials in marine applications, testing their durability and suitability, collaborating with fishers to design and trial new gear, and employing socio-ecological modelling to assess ecological and economic outcomes of transitioning away from plastics. The student will also identify regulatory pathways and develop actionable recommendations for positive change in fisheries management. The successful candidate will join the Marine Conservation Research Group, gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities, technical support, and comprehensive training in laboratory, field, and analytical techniques. The project is supported by partnerships with Defra, the MMO, AIFCA, and other key stakeholders, ensuring that the research has real-world impact and relevance. Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject, such as marine or environmental sciences, or possess a related Masters qualification. Experience or knowledge in fisheries management and a strong motivation to contribute to fisheries sustainability are highly desirable. The studentship is set to begin on 1st October 2026. For further information and to apply, visit the University of Plymouth's research studentships webpage. The application deadline is 12 noon on Monday, 2nd February 2026.