PhD studentship en modelado de viewscapes animales con LiDAR y ray-tracing - Manchester Metropolitan University y Chester Zoo, Reino Unido - Financiación completa - Deadline 27 marzo 2026
Location: Manchester, United KingdomOrganization: Manchester Metropolitan University and Chester Zoo
Contract Type: PhD studentship (fully-funded)
Main Description:
This fully-funded PhD project combines sensory ecology, evolutionary biology, and 3D imaging to develop computational tools for quantifying animal viewscapes in zoo enclosures. The research uses LiDAR and ray-tracing modelling to understand how animals perceive their environments, with the aim of improving enclosure design and guiding future conservation and welfare recommendations.
Requirements:
- First class or 2.1 degree in Biology, Zoology, Computer Science, Architecture or related field
- Strong coding skills (Python preferred)
- Experience with 3D data processing and analysis
- Excellent written communication skills
- Interest in interdisciplinary research and animal welfare/conservation
- Desirable: interdisciplinary team experience, LiDAR/point cloud experience, research experience, qualitative data handling
Benefits/Conditions:
- Fully-funded PhD covering tuition fees (£5,238 for 2026/27) plus UKRI standard stipend (£21,805 for 2026/27)
- Access to £117m Dalton Building and £1M digitisation/3D imaging facilities
- Skills training through Doctoral College
- Enrollment as Chester Zoo Conservation Scholar
- Both Home and International students eligible
How to Apply:
Complete online application form for full-time or part-time PhD in Biological Science. Submit Doctoral Project Applicant Form with CV and covering letter via University Admissions Portal. Contact Dr Charlotte Brassey (c.brassey@mmu.ac.uk) with any queries. Reference: SciEng-CB-2026-27-Modelling Animal Viewscapes.
More information and application: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-study/subject/apply-research-degree
