Project Overview

With the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, ecosystems worldwide face devastating consequences. This PhD project will pioneer innovative approaches to predict the vulnerability of marine biodiversity to heatwaves at regional scales, helping identify high- and low-risk areas and guide adaptive conservation strategies. Using rocky shore communities across the Southwest UK as a model, this transformative research will integrate physiological, ecological, and temperature data with advanced modelling techniques.

The goal is to provide actionable insights for protecting thermal refugia, mitigating ecological traps, and ensuring the persistence of vulnerable species. As part of this multi-disciplinary project, you will develop cutting-edge methods to predict heatwave impacts and contribute directly to conservation policy through collaboration with Natural England.

This studentship is one of nine exciting projects considered for three available positions, with allocations made based on the best combinations of candidate and project emerging during interviews.

What You Will Do

• Physiological Screening: Use automated imaging and computer vision techniques to assess physiological heat tolerance of intertidal species across multiple populations.
• Temperature Data Analysis: Manage a network of high-resolution temperature loggers across the Southwest UK to generate population-specific temperature datasets.
• Heatwave Simulations: Model localized heatwave impacts on biodiversity, predicting species mortality and community changes at different locations.
• Policy Impact: Work with Natural England to translate research outputs into conservation policies, creating a transferable framework for application across regions and ecosystems.
• Modelling and Integration: Combine physiological, ecological, and temperature data into novel models to assess biodiversity vulnerability.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates should meet the following requirements:

• A strong interest in marine biodiversity, conservation, and climate change.
• A background in marine biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Experience in laboratory research, data analysis, and/or modelling techniques is desirable.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• A commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and addressing real-world environmental challenges.

What We Offer

As a PhD student at the Marine Institute, you will benefit from:

• Comprehensive Training: Gain expertise in marine ecophysiology, climate change ecology, data modelling, high-resolution temperature data analysis, automated technologies, AI, and policy engagement.
• Expert Supervision: Work closely with a world-class multi-disciplinary team, including:
  • Dr. Manuela Truebano (Marine Ecophysiology and Animal Husbandry)
  • Prof. Michael Burrows (Modelling and Climate Change Ecology)
  • Dr. Oliver Tills (Automated Technologies and AI)
  • Prof. Pippa Moore (Climate Change Ecology)
  • Dr. Fernando Lima (Biogeography and Temperature Data Analysis)
  • Dr. Hannah Wood (Policy and Conservation Strategy)
• Professional Development: Opportunities to enhance skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Internship Opportunity: Collaborate with Natural England to bridge research and policy, gaining valuable experience in applied conservation strategies.
• Financial Support: A fully funded studentship covering tuition fees (Home or International rate) and a stipend of £19,237 per annum (2024-25 rate).

How to Apply

1. Visit the University of Plymouth Marine Institute website for detailed information on eligibility and funding.
2. Include the following documents in your application:
   • A personal statement specifying the DoS (Dr. Manuela Truebano) and the studentship title.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
   • Academic transcripts and any supporting evidence of your qualifications.
   • Names and contact information of two referees.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Ensure submission by 12:00 PM (noon) on Monday, 3rd February 2025. Interviews will be conducted shortly after the closing date, and the studentship will commence on 1st October 2025.

Contact for Inquiries

For informal discussions about the project, please contact Dr. Manuela Truebano via email.