PhD Studentship: Ecological Impact of Gamebird Release on UK Lowland Ecosystems
Explore the ecological consequences of gamebird release and management on biodiversity in southern England.
Best for:Best for ecology PhD students with a passion for fieldwork, resilience in rural environments, and experience in wildlife surveying or behavioral observation.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of Exeter investigates how the release and management of gamebirds—conducted on approximately 60% of UK land—affects non-game species. The project examines potential benefits (e.g., habitat management, predator control) and risks (e.g., disease spread, resource competition) to ectoparasites and reptiles. The successful candidate will conduct fieldwork across multiple game shoots in southern England, employing surveying, camera trapping, and analytical modeling to assess ecological impacts. Funded by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation and the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, this research offers a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation science in a collaborative, industry-supported setting.
What you'll do
- Conduct fieldwork across multiple game shoots in southern England to survey and observe gamebird release and management practices.
- Quantify relative abundances of focal species (ectoparasites and reptiles) using camera traps, field signs, trapping, and surveying methods.
- Apply a range of analytical methods to test conceptual models of how gamebird release and management influence key species of interest.
- Collaborate with gamekeepers and project partners to gather data on gamebird management activities.
- Analyze and interpret data to evaluate the net ecological consequences of gamebird release and management.
- Present findings at academic conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and fieldwork.
Instruction: English
- Experience in fieldwork, particularly in ecology or wildlife surveying.
- Proficiency in data collection techniques such as camera trapping and wildlife observation.
- Familiarity with statistical and analytical methods for ecological data.
- Ability to work independently in rural and potentially challenging field conditions.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills for managing fieldwork logistics.
- Eligible for Home tuition fees (UK or EU students meeting residency requirements).
- International applicants are welcome but must cover additional costs (e.g., visa fees, relocation expenses).
- No specific age or residency restrictions beyond standard UK PhD eligibility criteria.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-23
Applicants must submit their CV, a research proposal, and academic transcripts through the University of Exeter’s online application portal. Two references must also be provided. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for Home or International tuition fees before applying.
- CV
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Two reference letters
Contact
First Last· PhD Supervisor
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