KESS Scholarship

KESS Scholarship - PhD in change detection from satellite based data (Ref: NU Maxi AU10010)

Aberystwyth University are seeking to recruit a 3-year PhD student to work on a project entitled:

“Satellite-based monitoring of habitat and land use change in Wales.”

Background

The successful candidate will work with academic staff at Aberystwyth University, in collaboration with an industry partner (Environment Systems Ltd), to advance techniques and develop innovative algorithms for detecting change in land cover over multiple spatial and temporal scales using remote sensing (spaceborne) data and derived products.  Candidates with strong computing (e.g., programming) and statistical skills are encouraged to apply and knowledge of Welsh ecosystems is desirable.   It is an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate to apply technology-based skills to a real world application, with strong company interest in developing on the results. 

The study builds on a major project undertaken by IGES, Aberystwyth University, Environment Systems Limited and the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW), which has focused on mapping the extent of a diverse range of semi-natural habitats and also agricultural land in Wales from satellite sensor data.  A major aim of this proposed research is therefore to develop innovative techniques to establish whether changes in habitat type, extent and condition away from the newly established baseline (nominally for 2006), and for each successive year, can be detected, quantified and mapped through time-series comparison of new satellite sensor data. The research is anticipated to contribute to the development of procedures for routinely updating mapping for Wales.  The research is anticipated to have major benefits for land use planning in Wales and will contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of resources.

The prospective applicant should have a minimum of a 1^st or good 2:1 in a relevant degree (e.g. Computing Science, Geography, Biology or related topics), and be available to take up the studentship before the end of September 2010 at the latest (preferably sooner). The project is part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through the European Union’s Convergence programme administered by the Welsh Assembly Government. KESS PhD scholarships are collaborative awards with external partners. (Applicants need only apply, they do not need to search for partners)

To apply, you need to send Prof Richard Lucas (address below) , by the 20^th August 2010, a completed KESS application form (put the reference number NU Maxi AU10011 in the top right hand box of the application form), a completed University application form, the names of two personal referees, an up to date CV and a covering letter, in which you expand on the relevant contents in your CV and wider experience, and why you consider yourself a good candidate. Further information and KESS application forms are available at the bottom of this page, University application forms can be downloaded from the Aberystwyth Postgraduate website or from Nicki Jackson (noj@aber.ac.uk)

Value of Award: A stipend of £13,290 for 2009/10 (rising in accordance with inflation for the remaining two years). Each scholarship has an additional budget for travel, equipment/consumables and training to support your research. KESS PhD Scholarship holders do not pay fees.

Length: Full-time for 3 years. (Theses must be submitted 6 months after the funded three year study period)

Training: The achievement of a Postgraduate Skills Development Award (PSDA) is compulsory for each KESS scholar (The PSDA is based on a 60 credit award, which is an additional award to the PhD).

Eligibility: To be eligible to apply for a KESS award, you must be resident, upon application, in the Convergence Area of Wales and you must be able to take paid employment in the Convergence area on completion of the scholarship.

The Convergence Area means the following counties of Wales:
Isle of Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Ceredigion, Camarthshire, Pembrokeshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Caerphilly, Torfaen.

In the first instance, informal enquiries should be made to the Primary Advisor, Richard Lucas. However, please feel free to contact any of the project advisors (below) for specific details:

Closing date for applications 20th August 2010

Post Reference NU Maxi AU10010

KESS Aberystwyth Application Form (English) 

KESS Aberystwyth Application Form (Welsh)