This project is focusing on environmental sustainability in fisheries, specifically focusing on creels. The position would mainly be based in Heriot-Watt University Orkney campus, UK (link). However, the candidate will work in cooperation with co-supervisors from University of Glasgow. Specific training events and research support will also take place at Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh campus.

The project will focus on different sustainability aspects in creel fisheries mainly targeting European lobster and brown crab. Topics will include fisheries impacts on marine biodiversity through bycatch of unwanted species or juvenile individuals and marine pollution by derelict fishing gear. This PhD project would focus on approaches on how to improve creel fisheries for environmentally sustainable marine resource use. The candidate would need to focus and gain expertise in different topics in fishing gear technology and marine ecology. The duration of the PhD period is 3.5-years.

Detailed description of the position including methodology and project timeline is available here: Environmentally Sustainable Creel Fisheries

The project is announced in Iapetus Doctoral Training Partnership. Information on funding and conditions are available here: link.

Application deadlines

Please note that UK based applicants can apply directly using Iapetus platform (deadline on 3rd of January 12 midday (GMT). International applicants need to contact supervisor directly (K.Cerbule@hw.ac.uk) no later than the 9th of December 2024 because only international applicants supported by primary supervisor may apply to Iapetus.

In order to address historical imbalances in the higher education sector, Iapetus is committed to recruiting a diverse, representative community of researchers in Environmental Science. The DTP has developed an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy to further this. This includes the Widening Participation Scheme, which identifies Home applicants from underrepresented groups. Also, we are pleased to introduce the IAPETUS2 Diversifying Talent Scholarship Scheme, a separate competition designed for those from underrepresented groups. For more, please see the Iapetus website.