Naomi Vaughan

[£20,780 studentship funding available.] This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia offers a unique opportunity to investigate the exposure of forest carbon projects to wildfire risk on a global scale, with a focus on evolving threats under climate change. The project is a CASE collaboration with BeZero Carbon Limited, leveraging their extensive dataset of approximately 3,000 global carbon projects. Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is a cornerstone of future climate scenarios and national policies aiming for net zero emissions by 2050, with forest expansion through afforestation and reforestation playing a central role. However, the permanence and effectiveness of these projects are increasingly threatened by disturbances such as wildfires, which remain an under-studied risk factor. The research will compile a comprehensive global database of ongoing and planned forest carbon project boundaries, evaluate the effects of wildfire on these projects since 2000 using the Global Fire Atlas, and assess the net benefit of carbon projects by accounting for ecosystem recovery after fire events. Projections of future fire extent will be used to predict changes in exposure at different global warming levels (1.5–4.0°C), and the findings will inform prototype estimates of buffer pool sizes required to insure against future fire risk, tailored to specific regions. Applicants should have a strong quantitative background, with a degree in a numerate, computational, or environmental discipline. Essential skills include geospatial analysis using GIS, and programming experience in R or Python is highly desirable. The studentship provides funding of £20,780 and is open to both full-time and part-time study, starting on 1 October 2026. Entry requirements include at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 and English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 6 in each category). This project is ideal for candidates interested in climate change mitigation, forest ecology, geospatial data analysis, and quantitative research. You will work under the supervision of Professor Naomi Vaughan and collaborate with BeZero Carbon Limited, gaining exposure to cutting-edge research and practical applications in climate policy and carbon project management. To apply, visit the University of East Anglia's postgraduate research application portal and submit your CV, academic transcripts, and evidence of English language proficiency. Highlight your quantitative and geospatial skills in your application. The deadline for applications is 7 January 2025.