PhD in Palaeoenvironmental Studies | Loughborough University

About the Program

Loughborough University invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Palaeoenvironmental and Archaeological Studies. The PhD project, Environmental Change in High Arctic Lakes: from the Holocene to the Anthropocene, offers an exceptional opportunity to investigate long-term climate and environmental change through lake sediment archives in north-east Greenland (~80°N). Supervised by Prof Dave Ryves and Dr Jeff Evans, the research examines how Arctic ecosystems have responded to both natural and human influences across millennia, using diatoms and other proxies to reconstruct past environments. This interdisciplinary project combines palaeoenvironmental science, geography, and archaeology, providing valuable insights into Holocene landscapes and human–environment interactions in the High Arctic. The programme aligns with the Department of Geography and Environment’s strong research focus on climate, environment, and sustainability.

Program Details

Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: Loughborough University
Department/Faculty: Department of Geography and Environment
Supervisors: Prof Dave Ryves, Dr Jeff Evans
Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom
Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
Duration: 3.5 years (Full-time) / 7 years (Part-time)
Funding: Fully funded (UKRI/NERC CENTA studentship), including tuition fees, annual stipend of £20,780 (2025/26), and Research Training Support Grant (£8,000)
Working Hours: Full-time study
Required Degree/Diploma: Bachelor’s degree (2:1 or equivalent) or a relevant Master’s degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Geology, Earth Science, Biology, or related disciplines.

Research Focus / Area

Palaeoenvironmental change and Arctic ecosystems
Holocene and Anthropocene climate impacts
Sediment core and diatom-based environmental reconstruction
Lake–catchment dynamics and environmental archives
High Arctic archaeology and human–environment interactions

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field
Proficiency in English language (as per university standards)

Preferred Qualifications:

Research experience in environmental or archaeological science
Strong analytical and fieldwork skills
Familiarity with palaeoenvironmental or geochemical methods

Key Features of the Program

Access to cutting-edge analytical facilities and Arctic fieldwork
Interdisciplinary supervision and training
Research Training Support Grant (£8,000)
Participation in CENTA training and networking events
Opportunities to publish and present at international conferences

Application Process

How to Apply:

Complete the CENTA studentship application form (available at https://centa.ac.uk/apply/) under ‘Our project-based studentships’.
Submit the form online via Loughborough University’s portal.
Under ‘Campus’, select Loughborough and choose the programme Department of Geography and Environment.
Quote project reference CENTA2026-LU08 in your application.
Upload the CENTA application form, CV, and all required supporting documents.