These exciting PhD projects, part of the NERC-funded ECOSOLUTIONS Doctoral Focal Award, offer the opportunity to help tackle the problem of chemical pollution in rural environments.
Projects available:
Project 2 - Pollutants and land use pressures: impacts on food production, ecosystem services and human health (Dr Maria Val Martin, Sheffield)
Project 3 - Is biochar production the answer to biosolid reuse? (Dr Mark Hodson, York)
Project 9 - Forever chemicals in agricultural food systems (Dr Elma Lahive, UKCEH)
Project 10 - Understanding impacts of innovative agri-tech pest and disease control solutions on biodiversity and emergent ecosystem processes (Dr Pragna Das, York)
Project 12 - Future projections and sustainable scenarios for UK agricultural systems (Dr Stephen Lofts, UKCEH)
Project 13 - Fast-tracking food safety: cutting-edge mass spectrometry for protecting food supplies from hidden environmental contaminants (Dr Jackie Mosely, York)
Due to CDT funding rules and Institutional policies, the maximum number of international students that could be supported in this cohort has been met; only applications can be awarded to students who are eligible for Home fee status.
Prior to applying we ask that you contact the Principal investigator to discuss the project.
All applications will be assessed by the ECOSOLUTIONS executive committee to identify candidates who meet the PhD entry requirements and demonstrate a strong motivation to join the ECOSOLUTIONS programme. Successful candidates will then be invited to an interview which will be online and take place on Wednesday 22nd April 2026.
Preparing your PhD application (YouTube)
Watch this video for some top tips on writing PhD applications, including what skills and competencies you could include.
How to prepare for a PhD interview and presentation (YouTube)
Watch this video for tips on how to approach an interview and presentation.
Tips on meeting your potential supervisors (YouTube)
Watch this video to find out what to expect and what you can achieve from meeting with the supervisor or supervisory team.