MRes - Moving beyond dots in the management of carnivores: pine martens and occupancy modelling

Summary

Understanding where animals occur in the landscape is essential to conserve and manage a species effectively. Without such knowledge, management actions risk being ineffective and misplaced. As carnivores recover, or are re-introduced into landscapes, knowing where a species occurs is imperative if it is to persist in the landscape, particularly when naïve human populations are exposed to such species.

Historically, anecdotal records were the basis of interpreting where species occurred and informing their conservation and management. Although limited, they continue, for some species, to be the main means of informing conservation status. The advancement of technology, particularly camera traps, combined with their increased availability and reduced cost means that more reliable methods are available to record the presence of a species. When combined with standardized monitoring approaches and modern mathematical techniques, you end up with a more reliable and robust means of assessing a species distribution.

This project will build upon existing work undertaken by the supervisory team and support a PhD examining the factors that lead to conflict between people and small carnivores on the island of Ireland. The successful student will undertake fieldwork across the North of Ireland, process and analyse the collected data for pine marten (Martes martes) to produce occupancy models for the species. The outcomes of this work will build on previous models to provide an updated occupancy model for the species that will be used to inform current distribution and identify potential areas of conflict between humans and this recovering carnivore.

Essential Criteria

To hold, or expect to achieve by 15 August, an Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) Degree or equivalent from a UK institution (or overseas award deemed to be equivalent via UK NARIC) in a related or cognate field.

A project proposal is NOT required with this application.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This opportunity is open to UK/ROI applicants only.

MRes studentships will be available to top ranked candidates to cover tuition fees and a Research Training Support Grant of £900. All applicants will be considered automatically for an MRes studentship. Applicants who do not receive a studentship but meet admission requirements may be offered admission on a self-funded basis.

Applicants who already hold an MRes or a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of an MRes or doctoral degree are NOT eligible to apply for an award. Applicants who hold or who are registered on a taught Master’s degree are eligible to apply.