Computer modelling of extinction, and the impact of environmental stress

How do species respond to stress? What are the patterns of extinction in species, and, and at a larger scale, during mass extinctions? How do ecosystems recover from mass extinctions? These processes play out across a wide range of space and time. We can investigate them experimentally using computer models and use empirical datasets to validate results. This project will use the spatially explicit eco-evolutionary simulation software REvoSim to investigate how species ranges, populations, and interactions respond to environmental stressors, and how this changes as species go extinct. We will use the same platform to simulate extinction events on larger temporal and spatial scales, as well as subsequent recoveries. We will compare results from our simulations to – on smaller scales, ecological data, and on larger scales, to large datasets compiled from fossil occurrence data. The final element of the project will combine these data partitions, and assess the potential of different machine learning approaches in identifying species threats when informed by these disparate sources of data; we will compare these outcomes to the wealth of alternative AI approaches developed using complementary data sources.

Russell Garwood is a palaeontologist at the University of Manchester who uses X-rays, computers, and fossils to study evolution and the history of life. Joshua Scott Lynn is an ecologist and Lecturer in Global Change Biology at the University of Manchester.

www.russellgarwood.co.uk / orcid: 0000-0002-2803-9471

https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/joshua.lynn / orcid: 0000-0002-7190-7991

Entry requirements

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply (contact details; Dr Garwood – russell.garwood@manchester.ac.uk and joshua.lynn@manchester.ac.uk).

When contacting a potential supervisor for the first time, keep it clearly laid out and succinct. Your introductory email should include: 

·        A clear subject line – make sure it is clear what your email is about. Eg, Enquiry about potential PhD application. 

·        An introduction with information about your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience. 

·        Your eligibility and enthusiasm for PhD study. 

·        If you already know how you will fund your PhD, or if you are interested in securing a University of Manchester scholarship, you can include this information too. 

·        Summarise your interest in your chosen research area and how this aligns with the research of the academic you would like to supervise you. 

·        Attach a copy of your CV

How to apply

You will need to submit an online application through our website here: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When you apply, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents: 

•  Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications

•  Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress

•  CV

•  You will be asked to supply contact details for two referees on the application form (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/ work email address as we may need to verify the reference)

•  Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it.

•  English Language certificate (if applicable). If you require an English qualification to study in the UK, you can apply now and send this in at a later date. 

Funding

Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £19,237/annum) and up to a £5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 4-year programme.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).

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