PhD Studentship: The Role of the Wind in Dispersing and Generating Plastic Pollution

DoS: Dr Matt Telfer (Email: matt.telfer@plymouth.ac.uk)

2^nd Supervisor: Dr Lauren Biermann (Email: lauren.biermann-1@plymouth.ac.uk)

3^rd Supervisor: Aser Mata, (Email: asm@pml.ac.uk), PML

Applications are invited for a 3.5 years PhD studentship within the Environmental Intelligence doctoral training programme at the University of Plymouth, starting 01 October 2024.

Project Description

Scientific background:

In the past two decades, there has been much attention and research on the problem of macroplastic pollution of the environment, and the generation and dispersion of microplastics.  Although the emphasis originally focussed on marine and aquatic environments (Thompson et al., 2004), the past decade has seen widening of focus to incorporate terrestrial habitats and soils (Rillig & Lehmann, 2020). The focus in terms of processes of transport, modification and deposition of plastics, however, remains primarily on the role of hydrological processes and particularly the oceans. The role of the wind, especially important in coastal and arid environments, by contrast, has seen very little attention (Zylstra, 2013). Although some recent laboratory studies have begun to explore the role of the wind in generating microplastics (Bullard et al., 2021; Bullard et al., 2022), field-based studies of the problem are scarce (Yang et al., 2022). At the same time, recent years have seen many advances in identifying and monitoring plastic pollution using remote sensing techniques, again with a predominantly marine focus (Salgado-Hernanz et al., 2021), using both satellite (e.g. Biermann et al., 2020) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technologies (e.g. Geraeds et al., 2019). This project seeks to address the research gap regarding the lack of field-based quantitative data relating to the wind-blown dispersal of plastic pollution and the role of aeolian processes in field-based studies in generating microplastics.

Research methodology:

This project will combine remotely-sensed, field, and laboratory studies. Field sites will be selected where a clear aeolian contribution can be isolated from hydrological factors, using a combination of UK coastal locations and/or arid/semi-arid regions. The spatial distribution of macroplastics will be described by UAV-based surveys and Machine Learning, supported by field validation. Well-established laboratory-based methodologies (e.g. FT-IR spectroscopy) will be applied to identify the composition of micro-plastics. These will be combined with spatial analysis to address the role of the wind in dispersing, modifying and generating plastics in the natural environment.    

Training:

The successful applicant can expect to receive training in the use of remotely sensed data collection, including UAV operation, and spatial analysis within Geographical Information Systems (GIS) frameworks, using appropriate software. Any necessary laboratory training (e.g. spectroscopy) will be provided. The student will also receive appropriate training appropriate for doctoral-level research, such as the design and implementation of original research in the development of new knowledge. Related academic skills and experiences (e.g. presentation of results at academic conferences) will be promoted.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Matt Telfer, matt.telfer@plymouth.ac.uk

For further information on Eligibility, Funding and to Apply, please click on the links below: 

• Eligibility
• Funding

To apply, please click the 'Apply' button, above.

Please see here for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please visit our How to Apply for a Research Degree webpage or contact the Doctoral College.

The closing date for applications on 26 April 2024.

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