PhD Environmental Sciences - “Microbial Drivers of Temperate Rainforest Expansion and Functional Resilience”

DoS: Dr Thomas Murphy

2^nd Supervisor: Dr James Buckley

3^rd Supervisor: Dr Kirsty Matthews Nicholass

4^th Supervisor: Dr Jennifer Rowntree 

Applications are invited for a 3.5 years PhD studentship, starting 01 October 2026

Project Description 

Scientific background

The British and Irish Isles have very low levels of current tree cover and what remains is frequently of poor condition [1]. The UK government has therefore proposed increasing tree cover through tree planting and natural regeneration via seed dispersal. Tree planting is expensive but necessary for woodland expansion in areas lacking trees [2], yet the relative capacity of planted woodland and natural regeneration to support healthy and resilient native woodland is still unclear [3].  In particular, we know little about the roles of soil regeneration and associated microbial communities (bacteria and fungi) for supporting woodland restoration [4]. This project will focus on temperate rainforests of SW England, examining the connection between woodland restoration, soil condition and biodiversity in temperate rainforests of SW England.  

Methodology

Temperate rainforests are an internationally important habitat with extensive epiphyte (moss, lichen and fern) growth found in mild and wet climates; a recent report identified significant capacity for restoration of temperate rainforest in SW England [5]. This project aims to 1) assess the soil communities and ecosystem functioning of established temperate rainforest sites; 2) compare these to neighbouring plots of woodlands created by tree planting and natural regeneration; and 3) test the effect of soil community inoculation in supporting temperate rainforest restoration through an established experiment on Exmoor.

Alongside assays of soil physico-chemical characteristics (soil carbon, nutrient composition, compaction and water retention), DNA metabarcoding of soil (ground and arboreal) bacterial, fungal and invertebrate communities will be used to comprehensively document the soil biological community at the study sites. The student will visit field sites across two growing seasons to collect data on tree health and establishment, as well as the soil samples for molecular metabarcoding analysis. 

Person Specification & Training

The candidate should have experience of field and lab-based (molecular) research, and an interest in understanding and communicating the importance of Temperate Rainforest. The project will provide extensive fieldwork experience, as well as laboratory and analytical skills in metabarcoding. Experience of soil analysis and plant identification would be an advantage. Site selection will provide opportunities to network with local landowners and practitioners. 

Eligibility

Applicants should have a first or upper second class honours degree in Biological or Environmental Science or a relevant Masters qualification. You should have experience of field and lab-based (molecular) research, and an interest in understanding and communicating the importance of Temperate Rainforest.  Experience of soil analysis and plant identification would be an advantage. 

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum English requirements for the programme, IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or equivalent. 

Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded ARIES studentship of fees, maintenance stipend, £20,780 p.a. for 2025/26 (2026/27 rate TBC) and research costs. 

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Thomas Murphy, thomas.murphy@plymouth.ac.uk. 

Please click on the 'Apply' button above for further information and to apply. 

The closing date for applications on 7^th January 2026. 

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