PhD Scholarship: Trophic Interactions in Wood Pasture Ecosystems

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About the Opportunity 

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented and motivated applicant to undertake an original programme of research working with ecologists Dr Ashley Lyons and Dr Anne Oxbrough in collaboration with Dr Steven Ewing at the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science. This PhD is part of the Cumbria Connect project, which is funded by the Endangered Landscapes and Seascapes Programme. Cumbria Connect aims to restore 33,000 ha of the English upland landscape through a partnership with multiple stakeholders, united by mutual interest in the landscape’s future. Cumbria, a county in the North-West of England, is home to some of the UK’s most prized landscapes. Over the centuries, intensive land management approaches have caused the landscape to become degraded. The plans for agricultural transition following the UK’s departure from the EU have created a unique opportunity for stakeholders to work in partnership to transform this landscape. The project will seek to build a consensus for nature restoration in this renowned upland landscape that, in turn, will help to underpin a sustainable local economy. Therefore, this PhD provides a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of applied ecological restoration efforts across a vital landscape.

About The Research Project 

Agricultural intensification has led to a breakdown in ecosystem function, including impacting the integrity and complexity of trophic interactions (e.g. food webs). Cumbria Connect aims to recreate woodland pasture ecosystems across large areas of improved grassland, and the objective of this project is to track recovery of trophic interactions at restored sites. 

This three-year scholarship is funded by Edge Hill University but will work closely with researchers at the RSPB and other stakeholders in the Cumbria Connect project. The student will work with another PhD student, funded by Cumbria Connect, who will start at the same time. Both PhDs will be based at the Biology Department at Edge Hill University. 

The student will establish experiments in the Cumbria Connect Landscape, collecting field samples of invertebrates and utilising molecular analyses to reveal how wood pasture systems influence trophic interactions. The student will gain significant expertise in field sampling, species identification and advanced molecular analysis. They will join a team of ecologists already working in this field, and will have access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment, field skills training, exceptional mentoring opportunities, and collaborative work with the Cumbria Connect partners.

Details of funding

The successful applicant will:

• Be awarded an annual stipend of £19,237 per year.
• Benefit from fully paid tuition fees.
• Receive fully funded field and laboratory consumables for the project.
• Receive training in research skills and project development.

Applicant Eligibility

This opportunity is open to UK and EU based applicants. Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree at grade 2:1 or above and preferably have completed relevant postgraduate study. Prior relevant experience will also be taken into consideration.

At Edge Hill University we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society. 

How to submit your application

Please complete the online application form via https://qpl.edgehill.ac.uk/apex_qlive/f?p=PV_ONLINE_APP:101::::APP:APP_COURSE_INSTANCE:660749439

Once you have done this, please send the following items in one email to graduateschooladmissions@edgehill.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference and the project title, in the subject of the email: 

• a downloaded copy of your application form
• a cover letter/personal statement outlining your suitability
• a full academic CV (maximum of three A4 pages, using size 12 font) which includes the contact details of two referees
• a copy of your qualification certificates and passport

International applicants will also need to provide evidence of meeting the English language requirements as part of their application. See details of accepted language paperwork.

Key contacts: 

Please think about the support you need and contact one of the below directly:

Research project and supervision questions: please contact Dr Ashley Lyons ashley.lyons@edgehill.ac.uk

PhD registration and qualification questions: please contact graduateschooladmissions@edgehill.ac.uk

Deadlines and start date.

Closing date: 13th June 2025

Interview date: 30th June 2025

Candidates invited to interview will be required to deliver a 5-minute presentation on the proposed research topic.

The successful applicant will be required to start in October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. This is for a full-time PhD position.

About Us

At Edge Hill University we believe in the life changing opportunities knowledge can create. Since 1885, we’ve been creating access to knowledge for those who may not have had the opportunity to before.

Today, the effect we have has a far-reaching impact, not just for those who come to study here but for those who work, invest in, and live in our local communities too. So, if you’ve ever wondered if one person can make a difference, simply speak to our alumni, students, and award-winning staff.

Because for us education isn’t about how much you take in. It’s about what you take out into the world.

Inspiring minds and changing futures since 1885, Edge Hill University is “A great success story… an institution that improves and impresses year after year” – Times Higher Education.