Determining the origins and ages of plastic arriving on Scotland's shoreline
Marine litter is a global problem with, as yet, no solution(1). At the start of the Decade of the Ocean, we are still collectively generating around 13 million tonnes of plastic waste from terrestrial and marine industries, that ultimately end up in our seas and the global ocean each year. These extraordinary quantities of enduring plastic litter are becoming increasingly well documented, along with the resulting range of ecological, economic, and human health impacts.
This project aims to understand marine litter conditions in a pre-determined location on the West coast of Scotland based on the most recent scientific and third-sector observations(2,3). Following the initial survey, regular observations will be made of arrivals, movements and departures of litter items, documenting the effects of spring/neap tides, varying wind directions/strengths and storm surges. Methods will be developed to estimate the origins and ages of materials where possible.
This one year, fully funded MRes studentship is funded by The Academies and with support from the Leverhulme Trust, and follows UKRI funding guidance. To qualify for Home (UK) fees status, applicants must be either a UK National (meeting residency requirements) or meet the requirements of the EU Settlement Scheme and have either settled status, pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements) or indefinite leave to remain or enter. The studentship covers Home (UK) fees, a maintenance stipend and a research training grant.
Application Deadline: 31 October 2025
Start Date: 2 February 2026
Click here for more information about this project and how to apply
The MRes (Marine Science) research programme provides the skills and knowledge in areas of marine science from coasts to deep ocean, and related fields of biogeochemistry, biotechnology and robotics.
Research projects can range from ‘blue sky’ science to applied research addressing pressing societal and environmental problems. You will gain knowledge in research design as well as in management and communication.
The programme is delivered by research-active scientists across multiple disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, geology and social sciences. Research projects can be field based, desktop or in laboratories.