At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and deploy underwater camera systems to monitor inshore fish habitats.
- Company: University of Plymouth and Natural England collaboration.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, £19,830 stipend, and interdisciplinary training.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for those passionate about fisheries and AI-based solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fish conservation and habitat monitoring with innovative technology.
- Qualifications: First or upper second class honours degree or relevant Masters qualification.
Applications are invited for a four-year PhD studentship starting on 1st January 2027.
Project Description
This PhD focuses on developing and deploying underwater camera systems to reveal patterns of habitat use by inshore fish assemblages and to advance future monitoring capabilities. Shallow inshore areas provide important habitats for a range of fish species and are particularly important as nursery areas underpinning fisheries productivity and the viability of threatened populations. Tools to monitor fish assemblages in these areas are necessary to support nature conservation, habitat restoration and sustainable fishing. However, fisheries‑dependent data is often unavailable and many traditional monitoring methods are too resource‑intensive or unsuited to the complex, delicate habitats used by juvenile fishes. This project aims to offer both unique insights into specific juvenile habitats and help transform future monitoring capabilities.
Focusing on selected habitat mosaics within the National Marine Park and protected areas in Plymouth Sound, and building on developments in camera technology through the FinVision project, the student will implement a network of video cameras to investigate fine‑scale patterns of habitat use over extended periods, in relation to key environmental drivers. This camera network will also act as a testbed to develop automated AI‑based workflows for video processing: a key bottleneck in upscaling video‑based approaches. As a collaborative project between the University of Plymouth and Natural England, the PhD is an exciting platform for translating innovative research directly into policy and management practice.
Building on extensive experience of the supervisors working in both the research and management of juvenile fish habitats, the student will be trained in a range of inter‑disciplinary skills including coastal fish sampling, scientific diving, digital technologies and computer vision. Would suit individuals with interests in fisheries and conservation ecology, with an enthusiasm for developing novel technology and AI‑based approaches.
Eligibility
Applicants should have a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject or a relevant Masters qualification. If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum English requirements for the programme, IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or equivalent.
The studentship is supported for 4 years and includes full Home tuition fees plus a stipend of £19,830 per annum (2026/27 rate). The studentship will only fully fund those applicants who are eligible for Home fees with relevant qualifications. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee. There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.
The closing date for applications is 29th October 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in the week commencing 9th November 2026.
PhD Studentship: Developing and applying camera monitoring tools for inshore fish assemblages employer: University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the field of LawTech and AI. With generous benefits such as 35 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and extensive professional development opportunities, employees are supported in their growth while contributing to a transformative educational experience. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university fosters inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that all staff feel valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Developing and applying camera monitoring tools for inshore fish assemblages
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab Door
Look for internship programmes specifically set up for life sciences or biotechnology students. Many companies, including University of Plymouth, offer structured pathways for interns, so check their careers page or your university's career services to snag those early opportunities.
✨Connect with Researchers and Alumni
Tap into biotechnology-focused online communities, such as LinkedIn groups or local biotech meetups. Networking with seasoned professionals or alumni from your university can give you an inside track on internships that may not be widely advertised. A little conversation can go a long way!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
If you haven’t already, volunteer for or participate in research projects at your university. This hands-on experience not only builds your CV but also helps you make connections with faculty who can recommend you or point you to internship opportunities at companies like University of Plymouth.
✨Keep Your Application Needs in Mind
When you're ready to apply, make sure your online portfolio reflects relevant projects and any lab techniques you’re familiar with. Showcasing your understanding of biotechnology, particularly what relates to the work done at University of Plymouth, can help you stand out from the heap of applicants!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Developing and applying camera monitoring tools for inshore fish assemblages
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Lab Skills:For a biotech internship, showcasing any relevant lab skills is crucial. If you've worked with lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or CRISPR, make sure these stand out in your CV. We want to see that you have hands-on experience and can contribute from day one.
Share Your Academic Projects:Don't forget to mention any academic projects related to biotechnology. If you've conducted research or completed projects that involved analysis or experimentation, highlight these in your cover letter. It shows us your practical understanding of biotech concepts and your motivation to learn more.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, focus on your passion for biotechnology and your eagerness to learn. Use this space to explain why you want to intern with University of Plymouth specifically and how this experience aligns with your career goals. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Include Relevant Coursework:Make sure to list any relevant coursework on your CV. Classes like Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or Bioinformatics can really make you stand out. We want to see that you've got the foundational knowledge, as it helps us gauge how easily you'll adapt to our projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Plymouth
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
As we're diving into the biotechnology world, it's essential to refresh your knowledge on commonly used lab techniques. Be prepared to discuss methods like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and CRISPR. They might even ask you to explain the principles behind them or how you've used them in your studies!
✨Show Your Passion for Bioscience
Internships are all about eagerness to learn and grow, so let your enthusiasm for biotechnology shine through! Share any relevant projects, coursework, or volunteer experiences that showcase your motivation and dedication to the field. This will show University of Plymouth that you're not just looking for any gig, but you're genuinely excited about contributing to their research.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In a biotech internship interview, be ready for scenarios that test your problem-solving skills. For example, how would you handle a contamination issue in an experiment? Practising these types of questions will help you demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability, which are key traits for any budding biotechnologist.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Biotechnology often involves collaboration, so emphasising your ability to work in a team is crucial. Think about group projects or lab work where you collaborated with peers. Sharing these experiences will show University of Plymouth that you're not only a great individual contributor but also a team player, ready to thrive in their collaborative environment.
