This PhD studentship covers fees and stipend for a home (UK) student to conduct new research on ecological flows between land and water through riparian zones. The project will explore how these vital transitional habitats influence freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem functioning across dynamic landscapes using new field research and modelling approaches. The studentship is funded by the Leverhulme Trust through the Connected Waters Leverhulme Doctoral Programme.

Riparian zones – vibrant transitional spaces between land and water – are vital hotspots of ecological productivity and exchange. These dynamic systems influence the flow of energy, nutrients, and organisms between terrestrial and aquatic environments, fuelling the trophic networks that sustain biodiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality.

This exciting PhD project will quantify and model the reciprocal ecological flows between riparian zones and freshwater systems, focusing on wetlands and ponds across contrasting socio-ecological contexts (e.g. agricultural, urban and semi-natural). The research will push the boundaries of current science by examining how riparian habitats influence freshwater trophic networks while simultaneously considering how aquatic processes shape riparian functioning. A deeper understanding of how riparian zones drive two-way connections has the potential to transform how we design and restore landscapes to co-benefit land and water.

Using innovative field techniques, you will generate novel datasets on carbon and energy flows, with a specific focus on how riparian zone features enhance or disrupt biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. These findings will underpin the development of a cutting-edge agent-based model, integrating dynamic behaviours, life histories, and spatial feedbacks to predict how freshwater trophic networks respond to gradients of riparian complexity. Application of the tool to quantify evidence-based trade-offs between riparian habitat quality and human influence will set new benchmarks for harmonising land and water management priorities in a rapidly changing world.

If you are passionate about ecology and are interested in developing cutting-edge quantitative methods, we want to hear from you!

At a glance

  • Application deadline26 Mar 2025
  • Award type(s)PhD
  • Start date29 Sep 2025
  • Duration of award4 years
  • EligibilityUK
  • Reference numberSWEE0277

Supervisor

1st Supervisor: Dr Alice Johnston    

2nd Supervisor: Dr Robert Grabowski

 

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suits someone with interests in ecology, biology, environmental science or mathematical modelling. Experience and/or knowledge in each topic is not necessary as training will be provided. There is also flexibility for applicants to expand the elements of the project that interest them the most.

Funding

This fully funded Connected Waters Leverhulme Doctoral programme studentship is sponsored by the Leverhulme Trust and ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ and covers a stipend (£19,237; tax free) and fees for up to 4 years for a home (UK) student.

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be classified as a home student. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK.

Leverhulme Trust Programme funding
The Connected Waters Doctoral Programme will fund up to 4 home (UK) PhD scholarships starting October 2025 at ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥. One of these scholarships can be a Master's plus PhD, which will fund a one-year full-time MSc and then a 4 year-PhD for a candidate that meets the additional eligibility requirements below.
 
Eligibility requirements for Doctoral Scholarships
Scholars must be registered as full-time PhD students or provide a minimum time commitment of 50%, if part time students, unless the Trust gives explicit permission for this to be varied. Scholars will be subject to the terms and conditions applying to doctoral students within the host institution where they are registered.
 
Eligibility requirements for Master's Plus Scholarships
To be eligible for the Master’s plus PhD Scholarships, candidates must fulfil the following criteria as specified by the Leverhulme Trust:
 
  • Be a UK domiciled student
  • Not already have a Master’s degree from the host institution
  • Be from a low-income household background as evidenced by being in receipt of a full maintenance loan or Special Support loan during their undergraduate studies
 
and/or identify as one of the following categories of ethnicity:

 

  • Black African
  • Black Caribbean
  • Black Other
  • Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
  • Mixed – White and Black African
  • Other mixed background (including Black African, Black Caribbean and Black Other)
 

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

For further information please contact: Dr Alice Johnston - a.s.johnston@cranfield.ac.uk

To apply, please complete the following steps:
 
  • Download and complete the 
  • Upload your Connect cover form within the Personal Statement section of the .

Please ensure that your fully completed online application form is submitted by the application closing date. All requested documentation should be uploaded to the online form before submission. Your application will not be considered unless all relevant documents have been uploaded. 

This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged.

For further information about application please visit Applying for a research degree.