PhD Studentship: Underpinning to Test and Inform Bracken Control Strategies

100% home fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21, 805 (2026/27 UKRI rate) plus additional research funds

Bracken is one of the UK’s most persistent land-management challenges, threatening farming, forestry and biodiversity while becoming harder to control following the loss of asulam. This PhD will investigate how bracken responds physiologically to cutting, rolling and an innovative new ‘crimping’ technique, combining field experiments with modern plant physiology and growth studies. Working across the James Hutton Institute and Newcastle University, the student will explore how mechanical damage affects frond regrowth, carbohydrate transport, underground rhizome reserves and wider biodiversity.

The project will generate practical evidence to improve sustainable bracken control and support farmers, foresters and conservation managers across the UK and beyond.

1

4 January 2027

3.5 years

20 November 2026

Newcastle University

Prof Darren Evans

Dr Patricia Lopez
- Calcagno

You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project (biological sciences, plant science, ecology or agricultural sciences) Enthusiasm for research, the ability to think and work independently, excellent analytical skills and strong verbal and written communication skills are also essential requirements.

• 100% home fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21, 805 (2026/27 UKRI rate) plus additional research funds
• £21,805 minimum tax-free annual living allowance and 100% home fees covered.