UK : PhD Studentship Earthworms as indicators of contaminant bioavailability in anthropogenic soils

University of Central Lancashire - School of Built and Natural Environment

Reference No RS/09/13

Applications are invited for a full-time studentship available in the School of Built and Natural Environment. The studentship is tenable for up to 3 years for a PhD (via MPhil route) [subject to satisfactory progress]. The studentship will cover the cost of tuition fees at UK/EU rates plus a stipend (currently £13,290 for 2009/10) per annum. International applicants may apply but will be required to pay the difference between UK/EU and international fees. The successful applicant will start on 1 January 2010 if a Home/EU applicant or 1 April 2010 if an International Applicant.

Project Title: Earthworms as indicators of contaminant bioavailability in anthropogenic soils

Project Description:

Earthworms form a major component of the invertebrate fauna of fertile soils and have well established benefits. Charles Darwin recognised their importance in soil formation and recent research now specifies earthworms as soil “ecosystem engineers”. Earthworms can play a major role in improving the aeration, drainage and water holding capacity of the soil. Through their actions, earthworms also incorporate organic material into the mineral soil and increase the availability of nutrients for plants and other soil fauna.

The primary aim of the proposed research is to develop a sensitive, field-based protocol for assessing the bio-availability of soil contaminants through the use of earthworm culture and tagging techniques developed by the Earthworm Research Group at UCLan.

Initial objectives are:

(i)To culture species of soil dwelling earthworms on a small-medium scale

(ii)To undertake mark-release-recapture work over selected time intervals at Brownfield sites

(iii)To analyse earthworm tissue and soils for target contaminants and assess bioavailability and risk

These specific objectives should help to inform the initial research direction. Thereafter, it is expected that, in conjunction with the supervisory team, the successful candidate will develop the research trajectory towards a viable ecological assessment tool.

Applicants should have, or expect to receive, a second class (upper division) honours degree or above or a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in a related discipline.

Informal project related enquiries may be directed to Dr Chris Lowe 01772 893960 or e-mail: cnlowe@uclan.ac.uk

Requests for an application pack (quoting the reference number RS0913) should be directed to the Graduate Research Office. Tel: 01772 895082 or email: researchdegrees@uclan.ac.uk

The closing date for applications to the Graduate Research Office: Wednesday 18th November 2009

Proposed Interview Date Thursday 26th November 2009