Exciting Research Opportunities in Natural Flood Management

Two funded research opportunities are available at the University of Leeds for people interested in nature-based solutions. Both projects focus on reducing flood risk and improving the natural environment.

PhD: Building Climate-Resilient Landscapes

Ecohydrological Recovery of Peat and Organo-Mineral Soils

This funded PhD project is part of the Yorkshire Environmental Sciences Doctoral Training Network (YES-DTN).

The research will study how restored peatlands and soils store water and help reduce flood risk. It will also look at how these landscapes can adapt to a changing climate.

Working with Bridestones Rewilded, the project will support peatland restoration in Yorkshire. The findings will improve understanding of climate adaptation, nature recovery and sustainable land management.

This project is suitable for anyone interested in landscape restoration and nature-based solutions.

Apply for the Climate-Resilient Landscapes PhD

MSc by Research: Breaking Ground

Investigating Soil Aeration as a Natural Flood Management Strategy

This funded Master’s by Research project will explore whether soil aeration can help reduce flood risk.

Working with partners in Calderdale, the research will examine how aeration affects soil health, water absorption and flood resilience.

The project includes fieldwork, environmental monitoring and data analysis. Based at the University of Leeds, the research will help improve the evidence for natural flood management.

Apply for the Breaking Ground MSc by Research

Both opportunities are being delivered in partnership with Calderdale organisations through the Priority Actions Grant Scheme. These projects offer the chance to contribute to natural flood management research and help shape future policy and practice. For anyone interested in tackling environmental challenges, they provide an excellent opportunity to develop research skills while helping to create more resilient landscapes.