Fully funded studentship available - Lancaster University
Can managing grazing and biodiversity mitigate flood and diffuse pollution risk?
Supervisor: John Quinton
Registered: Lancaster University
The combined impacts of grazing management and pasture biodiversity on soil quality, runoff, flooding and water quality are relatively unknown. This project will explore these interactions, through a range of experiments involving simulated grazing and real livestock systems, providing an excellent opportunity for a student with a keen interest in soil and hydrological interactions. This highly relevant topic has the potential to make a significant impact on the way livestock systems are managed in the future. Through working with a combination of research expertise at Lancaster University and Rothamsted Research and industry partners at South West Water, first class training in advanced soil analysis, hydrological monitoring/modelling and water quality monitoring techniques will be provided through a combination of field trials and laboratory analyses, meaning that the student will acquire a wide range of skills and technical expertise in soil science, but also within other areas of scientific research or non-academic career paths.
This project is part of the STARS CDT and it benefits from CASE funding.
Eligibility:
Applicants should hold a minimum of a UK Honours Degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in subjects such as Environmental Science or Soil Science. The student will be required to work between three research locations, although the arrangements will be flexible.
Only open to UK/EU residents.
For further details please contact
Professor John Quinton: j.quinton@lancaster.ac.uk
Details of how to apply at http://wp.lancs.ac.uk/stars/pr