Award Summary
100% Home fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21,805. Research funds are available for the field and lab related aspects of the PhD research.
Overview
Trees are increasingly being incorporated into agricultural landscapes to provide shade, improve soils, support biodiversity, store carbon and protect farms from climate extremes. However, trees also use water, and the consequences of tree planting for water availability depend strongly on tree characteristics, root and canopy systems, soil conditions, climate and the spatial configuration of trees within farming systems. This PhD will investigate the mechanisms driving water use by trees in tree-based agricultural systems (TIFs) across contrasting environmental and agroclimatic contexts. The PhD will address questions about tree–water interactions, including: How does tree morphology and canopy structure influence water use? How do tree traits interact with tree density, configuration, soil and climate to determine water availability? How does water use vary between young and mature tree-based systems and between different types of tree-based agriculture? What proportion of water used by trees is derived from different soil depths and water sources? Can aboveground tree morphology be used to predict belowground water use and root‑zone water dynamics? Can mechanistic models be used to predict how different tree-based farming systems influence water stress and water availability under future climates?
For more information about the project and eligibility please
Number Of Awards
1
Start Date
April 2027
Award Duration
3.5 Years
Application Closing Date
15 October 2026
Sponsor
Newcastle University
Supervisors
Prof Marion Pfeifer (SNES, Newcastle University)
Dr Tom Reershemius (SNES, Newcastle University)
Eligibility Criteria
You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project. For more information
Applicants whose first language is not English require an IELTS score of 6.5 including in all sub-skills.
The studentship covers fees at the Home rate (UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status and meet the residency criteria). International applicants are welcome to apply but will be required to cover the difference between Home and International fees.
International applicants may require an ATAS Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance certificate prior to obtaining their visa and to study on this programme.
Contact Details
£21,805 tax-free annual living allowance & 100% Home fees covered
#J-18808-Ljbffr
PhD Studentship: Mechanisms Driving Water use in Tree-based Agricultural Systems (TROPS lab, Newcastle University) employer: Newcastle University
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging creativity and collaboration among its team members. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities and the chance to work on impactful projects that enhance the university's reputation. Located in the heart of Newcastle, you'll enjoy a dynamic environment that values innovation and offers a fulfilling career path in the education sector.
