Developing scalable measures of environmental outcomes

We are offering an exciting opportunity for PhD studies in developing scalable measures of environmental outcomes. More specifically, you will be involved in a MBIE Endeavour project “Kai anamata mō Aotearoa – exploring future food system scenarios and impacts”. In this project, you will identify key environmental outcomes, with a focus on fresh water quality or biodiversity, that are important to Kai Anamata Mō Aotearoa, on-farm management of the natural environment, and to national environmental monitoring. Potential indicators of the relevant environmental outcome(s) will be reviewed from the point of view of validity, reliability, and value as a summary indicator for the outcome.

Measurement protocols for the indicator(s) will be identified from existing practice and adapted to be suitable for on-farm and enterprise level usage. Developing a cost-effective and easy-to-use measurement protocol for the identified environmental indicator(s) is the key focus for the PhD research. The protocols will be trialled on the ground in Te Tau Ihu on Wakatū affiliated farms and the results validated against existing environmental monitoring. A key focus here will be the potential for scaling farm or enterprise level measures over a sufficient area to produce meaningful regional level data that is comparable to existing regional council monitoring. You are also expected to help in writing project outcomes and lead research papers resulting from the investigations.

The host department will be Civil and Natural Resources Engineering (CNRE) at the University of Canterbury. Its role is to remain at the forefront of research and technology, preserve our strong international reputation for high quality teaching, and provide students with the highest level of training.

The research team is multi-institutional and you will be working with leaders in their field for making a truly positive impact on our environment and food nutrition. The supervision team will consist of Conal Smith (Principal, Kōtātā Insight) and Tom Cochrane (Professor, University of Canterbury). You are expected to engage with the Sustainable Nutrition Initiative® (SNi®) of the Riddet Institute, hosted at Massey University, the Wakatū Incorporation and work in Te Tau Ihu (Nelson/Motueka) and the University of Canterbury. 

Key qualifications and skills

You will have a first-class honours or Masters degree in environmental science, engineering (environmental/natural resources), or a related discipline with strong experience in monitoring and environmental measurements. Interest in and knowledge of field sampling, water quality, sensors, spatial analysis (GIS) / remote sensing, statistics, and ecological systems is desired.

Ideally, you will excellent team-working skills. Successful candidates are expected to be comfortable working both independently and in a collaborative environment with other PhD students, academics, and team members. Good time management and communication (both written reports and verbal) skills are also essential.

You must also meet PhD enrolment requirements by the University of Canterbury.

How to apply

Curriculum vitae, cover letter, and contact details of at least two referees should be emailed to Professor Tom Cochrane (tom.cochrane@canterbury.ac.nz) by the deadline. 

Final date for receiving applications

The closing date for this Scholarship: 18 September 2024 (midnight, NZ time). Applications will be reviewed after the close date.