PhD Studentship: Storylines of Risk Assessment for Wind and Flood Impacts in a Post-Net Zero Climate in the UK, NERC GW4+ DTP PhD studentship for September 2026 Entry

About the Partnership

This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the NERC Great Western Four+ Doctoral Training Partnership (GW4+ DTP).  The GW4+ DTP consists of the Great Western Four alliance of the University of Bath, University of Bristol, Cardiff University and the University of Exeter plus five Research Organisation partners:  British Antarctic Survey, British Geological Survey, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology,  the Natural History Museum and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.  The partnership aims to provide a broad training in earth and environmental sciences, designed to train tomorrow’s leaders in earth and environmental science. For further details about the programme please see http://nercgw4plus.ac.uk/

For eligible successful applicants, the studentships comprises:

• An stipend for 3.5 years (currently £20,780 p.a. for 2026/27) in line with UK Research and Innovation rates
• Payment of university tuition fees
• The budget for project costs is £9,000 which can be used for computer, lab, and fieldwork costs necessary for you to conduct your research.
• There is also a conference budget of £2,000 and individual Training Budget of £1,000 for specialist training

Project Aims and Methods

Explore the future of extreme weather in a post-net zero climate. 

This project will explore how extratropical cyclone risk — including wind and flood hazards — may change in a post-net zero climate. With the UK committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, understanding the long-term implications of this transition for storm risk is crucial for effective adaptation.  

Using simulations from the Zero Emissions Commitment Model Intercomparison Project (ZECMIP), the research will analyse potential changes in storm frequency, intensity, and regional distribution, with particular attention to coastal and flood-prone areas. A storyline approach will provide structured ways of exploring these futures, highlighting physically plausible but contrasting outcomes.  

The project offers scope for students to shape its direction, whether by focusing on the physical mechanisms of post-net zero storms, developing risk assessment methodologies, or linking directly to policy-relevant recommendations for UK resilience.

Useful recruitment links:  

For information relating to the research project please contact the lead Supervisor via: j.catto@exeter.ac.uk

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