PhD Studentship: Sustainable Transition to Nature-based Solutions for Coastal Defence

Overview

This is an opportunity to conduct fully funded interdisciplinary research under the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’ at the University of Essex.

Coastal communities must rapidly adapt to the effects of sea-level rise. Nature-based solutions can assist with achieving a sustainable transition of coastal defence.

Essex estuaries have a cultural heritage tied to oysters dating back to Roman times, but native oyster beds are now one of the most threatened marine habitats in Europe and have been controversially substituted by the introduced Pacific oyster in the 1960s. This project explores the potential of oyster reefs within Essex estuaries to function as a natural breakwater, dissipating wave energy, slowing coastal erosion, and reducing storm damage. Oyster reefs benefit the natural environment and economy by enhancing water quality through filtration and providing habitats to support commercially important fisheries.

We lack information on the distribution of native and introduced oyster reefs along the Essex coast and need research on requirements, legal frameworks, socioeconomic drivers and conservation concerns that impede the development of oyster reefs for adaptation to sea-level rise.

Interdisciplinary focus and methods

Various stakeholders including the fishing, leisure and tourism industries, conservation groups, environment management agencies and local governments affect the planning and development of coastal environments. Any changes to existing coastal defence strategies – typically hard-engineered seawalls – must consider the views and requirements of all stakeholders. You will use an interdisciplinary approach to provide the natural science base, map the current and potential habitats of native and introduced oysters using drone, acoustic and on-foot surveys, and quantify oyster reef development on various substrates at a pilot site in the Colne estuary (supervised by Dr Steinke), explore the perceived barriers and opportunities around the naturalisation of an introduced species that supports the shellfish industry (supervised by Dr Wheeler), and assess the level of acceptance of nature-based alternatives in coastal communities using big-data methodologies (supervised by Dr Ali).

Training and Support

You will be supported through the Sustainable Transitions training programme which provides initial training in interdisciplinary research methods, training in the secondary and tertiary disciplines within the project area and ongoing training throughout the duration of the programme. All doctoral scholars benefit from £2,500 of support from Proficio  that can be used to purchase training courses either within or external to the University. Additionally, Leverhulme scholars are entitled to £10,000 that can be used to cover research costs and further training. Doctoral scholars are encouraged to audit masters and degree-level course where appropriate. You will also have the support of the Sustainable Transitions management team as well as your own supervisory team. Additionally, all Sustainable Transitions scholars will become part of the University of Essex ‘Centre for Environment and Society’ through which ongoing events and networking opportunities are available.

Person Specification

This opportunity would suit someone with a curious mind that enjoys interdisciplinary work. A degree in environmental/marine science would be advantageous but candidates with a social-science degree and environment-facing experiences or skills will be considered.

Research Proposal

The project area is broadly defined, leaving scope for the applicant to develop their own specific research proposal as part of the application. The successful candidate will further develop their proposal in close consultation with the supervisory team. 

Closing Date: 31st  May 23:59 GMT