Velux Stiftung BARKSHIELD Scholarship

This MRes opportunity at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI Inverness) is part of the internationally networked BARKSHIELD project, funded by Velux Stiftung, which aims to optimise post-bark beetle disturbance management and promote forest biodiversity and recovery under climate change. The research focuses on perceptions of adaptation to European Bark Beetle (Ips typographus) outbreaks and post-disturbance management within the UK forestry sector, with a particular emphasis on the main commercial species, Sitka spruce, and the potential long-term impacts on the industry and supply chain.

Work Package 4 of BARKSHIELD employs social science methodologies to address stakeholder perceptions about post-disturbance forest management. The project offers scope for a mixed methods approach, allowing candidates to integrate ecological, economic, or modelling techniques alongside the primary social science element. Research activities include expert and land manager interviews, surveys, and workshops to develop actionable insights and inform contingency plans for the forestry sector.

The MRes candidate will benefit from collaboration with European and American partners, enhancing the context and scope of the study through knowledge exchange. Participation in an in-person knowledge-transfer event in Switzerland, organized as part of the Swiss Forest Lab Science Day in early 2027, is included, with travel, accommodation, and participation costs fully covered.

UHI Inverness, a major partner of Scotland’s newest university, offers a vibrant postgraduate environment through the Centre for Living Sustainability. Students enjoy regular cohort meetings, tutorials, seminars, and networking opportunities. The Centre takes an interdisciplinary and creative approach to research, amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and supporting regional strengths and ambitions.

The scholarship covers MRes tuition fees at the UK home student rate (£5,238) and £1,775 for fieldwork expenses, totalling £7,013. International applicants are welcome but must cover any tuition fee difference. Essential requirements include a minimum 2:1 honours degree in social sciences, forestry, or a related area, prior training in social research methods, familiarity with relevant policy frameworks, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to conduct independent research.

Applications should be emailed to [email protected] by March 31, 2026, with 'BARKSHIELD Scholarship Application' in the subject. Include a cover letter, CV, and optionally a sample of related work. The project is co-supervised by Dr SW Wagner and Dr EB Bowditch, with additional support from the Cromarty Firth Watershed Environmental Trust and a member of the forestry sector focused on resilience.

This MRes offers a unique opportunity to contribute to forest management adaptation strategies, engage with international partners, and develop skills in social science research within a supportive academic environment.