PhD Studentship: Plant Physiology and Bracken Control Strategies
Investigate innovative mechanical bracken control methods and plant physiological responses through a fully funded PhD.
Best for:Best for biology or ecology graduates with a strong interest in plant physiology, field experiments, and sustainable land management.
Overview
Newcastle University and the James Hutton Institute are offering a fully funded 3.5-year PhD studentship focused on developing sustainable bracken control strategies. The research combines field experiments, plant physiology, and growth studies to assess how mechanical treatments like cutting, rolling, and crimping impact plant regeneration and local biodiversity. The successful candidate will examine underground rhizome reserves, carbohydrate transport, and frond regrowth to generate actionable evidence for land managers across the UK. Applicants will receive complete coverage of home tuition fees alongside an annual tax-free living allowance and dedicated research funds.
What you'll do
- Design and execute field experiments evaluating mechanical bracken control techniques including cutting, rolling, and crimping.
- Analyze plant physiological responses, focusing on frond regrowth, carbohydrate transport, and rhizome reserves.
- Assess the broader environmental impacts of mechanical damage on local ecosystems, forestry, and biodiversity.
- Collaborate across institutions with researchers at both Newcastle University and the James Hutton Institute.
- Produce academic publications and practical evidence reports to support farmers, foresters, and conservation managers.
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or international equivalent in biological sciences, plant science, ecology, or agricultural sciences with a minimum 2:1 Honours degree
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficient spoken and written communication skills
Instruction: English
- Strong background in plant science, ecology, or biological sciences
- Demonstrated ability to think and work independently on research tasks
- Excellent analytical and data interpretation skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Open to applicants eligible for UK home fees (minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent)
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-20
Candidates must apply through the Apply to Newcastle Portal by creating a postgraduate application under programme code 8020F for full-time PhD Biology. Applicants must enter the studentship reference code SNES317, select 'Write Proposal' for the research proposal section using the project title, and upload all required documentation.
- CV
- Personal Statement
Contact
Darren Evans· Professor
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