The Limestone Pavements Partnership is offering a Master's by Research position - funded in part by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee - exploring the nature of the soils found within the pavements.

Limestone pavements are a rare and highly protected habitat which support many rare species. However, despite their importance for nature conservation they have received very little research attention. In particular, we know very little about the soils of limestone pavements. The Master's by Research therefore aims to allow researchers to gain a better understanding of the soils in limestone pavements including the distribution of soil depths, nutrient concentrations, biota and other soil properties. The project also aims to assess the vulnerability of pavement soils to nutrient enrichment. By gaining a better understanding of the soils of limestone pavements we can begin to understand which pavements are most likely to be vulnerable to global change, including changes in management.

For those interested in applying, the details of the position are below:

General eligibility criteria

Enthusiasm, independence, self-motivation, curiosity and the ability to communicate to a range of audiences are all distinctly advantageous qualities for a MSc-R. Applicants would normally be expected to hold a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in a relevant degree course. However, applicants who have gained experience in relevant fields through non-traditional routes are strongly encouraged to apply. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian or Ethnic Minorities candidates, candidates who are in the first generation of their family to go to university, candidates who have been in care or who have been a young carer, and candidates from a low-income background.

English language requirements for overseas students can be found here.

Project-specific criteria

The successful candidate will have an undergraduate degree with a minimum of a 2:1 in a relevant subject and a passion for soils and ecology. You will be joining an active research group with other Masters and PhD students working in similar areas.

This Masters by Research project can be undertaken on a part-time or full-time basis.

Studentship funding

The tuition fees and research costs are funded by Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) but there is no stipend.

Unfortunately, funding is not available to cover fees for non-UK students.

Dates

Deadline for applications: 2nd September

Provisional Interview Date: To be confirmed

Start Date: 1st October 2025

Application process

Download the LEC Funded PhD Application Form and LEC Funded PhD Reference Form‌.

Complete the Application Form, renaming the document with your 'Name and Application Form' e.g., Joe Bloggs Application Form.

Submit the completed Application Form and a CV to lec.pgr.applications@lancaster.ac.uk

Please note only Word or pdf files are accepted.

Rename the referee form with your ‘Name and Reference’, e.g., Joe Bloggs Reference. Send the renamed reference form to two referees and request them to forward the referee document to lec.pgr.applications@lancaster.ac.uk

Please note only Word or pdf files are accepted. It is important that you ensure references are submitted by the closing date or as soon as possible.

1. You will receive a generic acknowledgement in receipt of successfully sending the application documents.
2. Please note that only applications submitted as per these instructions will be considered.
3. Please note that, if English is not your first language, you will be required to provide evidence of your proficiency in English. This evidence is only required if you are offered a funded PhD and is not required as part of this application process.
4. Please note that, if you do not hear from us within four weeks of the closing date then you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. If you would like feedback on your application, please contact the supervisors of the project.

Submit all applications and references to this email address: lec.pgr.applications@lancaster.ac.uk