PhD Studentship: Mechanisms of Water Use in Tree-Based Agricultural Systems
Explore how tree morphology, soil, and climate interact to influence water availability in agroforestry systems.
Best for:Best for graduates in environmental science, ecology, or related fields with an interest in agroforestry, hydrology, and computational modeling.
Overview
This PhD studentship at Newcastle University focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind water use by trees in tree-based agricultural systems (TIFs). The project investigates how tree traits, density, canopy structure, and environmental conditions affect water availability and stress under future climates. The research integrates fieldwork, lab experiments, and modeling to address critical questions about water dynamics in agroforestry. Applicants will work under the supervision of experts in environmental science and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. The studentship covers full tuition fees for UK/EU students and provides a tax-free living stipend, along with research funding for field and lab work.
What you'll do
- Conduct field and laboratory experiments to measure water use by trees in agroforestry systems.
- Develop and apply mechanistic models to predict water dynamics under varying environmental conditions.
- Analyze data on tree morphology, canopy structure, soil properties, and climate interactions.
- Assess how tree density, configuration, and maturity influence water availability and stress.
- Collaborate with supervisors to design and implement research methodologies.
- Present findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices informed by research outcomes.
Requirements
Degree required: Minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to environmental science, ecology, agriculture, or related fields.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS 6.5 (including all sub-skills) or equivalent for non-native speakers.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in environmental science, ecology, or related disciplines.
- Experience with fieldwork and laboratory techniques.
- Familiarity with data analysis and statistical methods.
- Basic knowledge of computational modeling or willingness to learn.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
- Applicants must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent.
- UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status and meeting residency criteria are eligible for full fee coverage.
- International applicants are welcome but must cover the difference between Home and International fees.
- Applicants may require an ATAS clearance certificate for visa purposes.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Applicants must apply through the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal. Select ‘Create a Postgraduate Application’ and use the course code 8020F for PhD Biology. In the ‘Further Details’ section, provide a personal statement, include the studentship code SNES316, and write the project title in the research proposal section. Ensure one application per studentship.
- Personal Statement
- Studentship code SNES316
- Research project title (no upload required)
Contact
Marion Pfeifer· Supervisor
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