Project Overview
Cranfield University has a remarkable opportunity for PhD candidates through a fully-funded studentship in collaboration with the Peak District National Park. The project targets the development of advanced image-based AI models to monitor and evaluate habitats across the UK. This data is critical for understanding species distribution and supports targeted nature recovery efforts, addressing the 60% decline in priority species since 1970.
Funding & Sponsorship
Sponsored by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) through the CENTA Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), this project provides a stipend of £19,237 per year for UK home-fees eligible students. Additionally, it includes full university fees coverage and a Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £8,000. Final funding confirmation is expected under the BBSRC-NERC Doctoral Landscape Award (DLA) scheme, with results anticipated in late 2024.
The Research: Innovating for Biodiversity Conservation
The UK Digital Ecological Landscapes project aims to leverage recent advancements in remote sensing and AI. Working closely with experts, students will develop and test models to improve the speed, accuracy, and scale of biodiversity monitoring. Despite progress, challenges like varying land cover due to climate and management practices, as well as limitations in image data collection, make it essential to build representative datasets for UK landscape habitats.
Eligibility Requirements for Cranfield University Jobs
Ideal applicants should possess:
- Educational Background: At least a 2:1 at the UK BSc level or a pass at the MSc level in a relevant field.
- Funding Note: While fully-funded for eligible UK students, other applicants must ensure additional tuition fee coverage if not home-fees eligible.
Application Process
Prospective applicants can reach out to the following contacts:
- Project Inquiries: Dr. Daniel Simms | d.m.simms@cranfield.ac.uk | T: (0) 1234 750111
- Application Queries: study@cranfield.ac.uk