PhD in Ecology and Evolution - Sustainable Agriculture in Leeds United Kingdom | University of Leeds

Pursuing a research degree in the Faculty of Biological Sciences allows you to cultivate expertise as an autonomous investigator in your selected discipline. Guided by your principal supervisor and additional co-supervisors, you'll engage in pioneering investigations addressing specific biological challenges while joining a vibrant research network employing cross-disciplinary methods to solve contemporary scientific problems. During your doctoral studies, you'll not only deepen your specialized knowledge but also refine professional competencies through structured training initiatives, seminar participation, and conference attendance.

A crucial dilemma facing our expanding global population involves producing sufficient nutritious food while preserving Earth's finite resources. Our research team examines strategies for improving natural ecosystems adjacent to farmlands and analyzes how these systems contribute to agricultural output. Principal investigations concentrate on understanding the population dynamics, variety, and ecological roles of essential insect populations - particularly pollinators and biological control organisms that deliver indispensable services (valued at 220 billion annually worldwide for pollinators alone) to food systems worldwide. Special attention is given to how specific agrochemicals, including neonicotinoids, impact pollinator population decreases. Another research priority explores how modifying agricultural environments through ecological rehabilitation can boost crop yields.