Applications are invited for a fully-funded PhD scholarship that will focus on understanding what factors predict wild mammalian carnivores’ ability to adapt to environmental changes, particularly within the context of rewilding. This PhD study is part of the University of Hull’s REWILD Research cluster (see “About the research cluster” below for more details of the cluster). The notion of rewilding is a controversial topic because many programmes focus on carnivores. Negative opinions can severely limit such programmes’ success, thereby wasting time, money, and effort. The PhD will therefore explore, among other things, the links between the psychology and behavioural ecology of wild mammalian carnivores’ adaptability to new environments, and how human perception of those species can facilitate rewilding success.
We are looking for an enthusiastic student with the following general qualities: 1) a keen interest and passion for wildlife, 2) experience conducting research involving trail cameras, 3) in good physical and mental condition suitable for working outdoors, 4) medical and car insurance, 5) a valid driving license, 6) a vehicle suitable for driving on country roads, 7) roadside car assistance (e.g., AA), 8) an interest and ability to work effectively in both the field and lab, and 9) a proficiency in, or willingness to become proficient in data analysis using R. Knowledge or a willingness to learn structural equation modelling is also highly desirable. Lastly, working in the field has many potential dangers (e.g., accidental injury) and must be done even when the weather is not ideal (e.g., cold and rainy days). Thus, the successful student must be willing to work safely and responsibly under such conditions, and potentially for exceptionally long hours (e.g., dawn to dusk).
The successful student will, among other things, set up trail cameras and puzzle feeders throughout our field sites to monitor animals’ visitations and behaviour at those locations. You will also use a combination of surveys and experimental methods to study the underlying drivers of human perception of wild carnivorans, particularly within the context of rewilding programmes. It is intended that there will be no direct human-animal contact and that animals will visit locations when people are not present. The successful candidate will be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary and nurturing environment to help realise your potential, and will be provided with excellent opportunities for external networking. We will hold regular monthly meetings with the entire cluster, with opportunities to present and discuss research, invite internal and external speakers and collaborators and foster networking.
For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Blake Morton.