PhD Studentship: Quantifying Ecosystem Service Provision of Kelp Farming Nutrient Removal and Coastal Protection

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

• 1) Collate existing evidence on kelp ecosystem service provision
• 2) Determine the wave attenuation potential of farmed kelp
• 3) Quantify the role of kelp in the uptake and removal of nutrients
• 4) Model kelp ecosystem services through space and time.

Number of awards: 1

Start date:

4 January 2027

Award duration: 3.5 years

Final date to receive applications: 18th November 2026

Sponsor:
Newcastle University

• Prof Pip Moore (Newcastle University)
• Prof Clare Fitzsimmons (Newcastle University)
• Dr Dan Smale (Marine Biological Assocation)

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 (e.g. Marine Biology, Ecology, Biology).

You should also hold an HSE SCUBA diving qualification or equivalient (i.e. CMAS 3
* or above).

The studentship covers fees at the Home rate (UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status and meet the residency criteria).

Prof Pip Moore –

£21,805 tax-free annual living allowance and 100% Home fees covered.