PhD Studentship – The Impact of Peatland Rewetting on Invertebrate and Microbial Assemblages
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester, United Kingdom
This fully funded PhD studentship offers a unique opportunity to deepen scientific understanding of how peatland restoration influences key biological communities that underpin ecosystem function. Peatlands are globally significant ecosystems, providing vital services such as carbon storage, water regulation and habitat for diverse species, yet a large proportion in the UK remain degraded. Restoration efforts, particularly rewetting, aim to reverse these declines by raising water tables and reducing erosion, but there is limited evidence on how such interventions affect invertebrate biodiversity and microbial assemblages over time.
The research will adopt a systematic, evidence‑based approach to quantify how biodiversity indicators and ecosystem processes respond across a range of restored and unrestored sites, focusing on upland areas. Core activities include comprehensive field data collection across spatial and temporal gradients, detailed laboratory taxonomy of invertebrate samples, analysis of water and soil parameters, and statistical evaluation of ecological change. Through examining restoration outcomes across different management regimes, this project will generate robust ecological insights that can inform future peatland policy, guide land management practice and support stakeholders invested in sustainable ecosystem recovery and climate resilience.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic background in biology, ecology or environmental science, with prior experience of fieldwork in upland peatland environments and engagement with landowners or conservation bodies to facilitate research. A sound understanding of upland ecosystem services, conservation challenges and landscape‑scale ecological interventions is essential.
Required Expertise, Skills
The ideal candidate will have practical experience in upland peatland fieldwork, including measurement of water quality, water table and soil biodiversity indicators, alongside laboratory skills for analysing invertebrate and microbial samples. Competence in environmental data collection, familiarity with ecological assessment techniques and the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders will support success in this interdisciplinary research environment.
Salary Details
This studentship includes a standard UKRI‑aligned maintenance stipend of £20,780 per year (academic year 2025/26). Both home and international applicants may apply; the award covers home tuition fees for the three‑year duration, while eligible international candidates will be responsible for the difference in fees.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 19 March 2026.