Postgraduate opportunities

Project type: MSc field research 
Overview: To assess what factors influence whether female Pine Hoverflies lay eggs into breeding habitat. This will help inform the design and placement of artificial breeding habitat (stumps and troughs) and the provision of more natural breeding habitat (eg through encouraging rot holes).  
 
This project will make use of a long run of data collected by the Rare Invertebrates in the Cairngorms Project and will include field study at reintroduction sites within Strathspey, including the RSPB's Abernethy nature reserve. There may be an opportunity for laboratory experiments too, using captive stock held at RZSS's Highland Wildlife Park. 

Contact: Genevieve Tompkins and Annie Ives: rare.invertebrates@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: May to June and September to October 2026 
Location: Cairngorms, Scotland 
Resources available: Data, training and access to RSPB reserves
Key rquirements: Driving licence and own transport essential 

Background: The Pine Hoverfly is one of the UK's most threatened species. It’s restricted to the Caledonian pinewoods in the Scottish Highlands, with the remnant population confined to one indigenous site. Conservation efforts to expand its population, made by a long-standing partnership of organisations, are concentrating on supplementation of its breeding habitat using cut stumps and troughs filled with wood chip to mimic pine heart-rot, plus captive breeding and translocation.  
 
A previous PhD study investigated the rates of development of larvae and different types of substrate used within the stumps/troughs (Rotheray EL et al. 2015. Ecological Entomology, DOI: 10.1111/een.12269).  

Since 2021, Pine Hoverfly larvae and adults have been released into four sites, including two sites at the RSPB’s Abernethy reserve, and the number of larvae have been monitored annually. The ultimate aim is to establish self-sustaining populations that are not dependent on these interventions and exist within natural rot-holes in mature pines. To get to this point we wish to optimise the surrogate breeding habitat we are providing and this study should help us do this.  
 
Further reading: 

• Taylor HR, Rotheray E, Elliott A, MacGowan I, Sears J and Tompkins G (2021) Hovering on the edge of extinction: efforts to save the pine hoverfly. British Wildlife. 32: 547–554. 

• Taylor HR, Allott C, Tompkins G, The Pine Hoverfly Steering Group, MacGowan I (2025). A large-scale conservation breeding and translocation programme to reintroduce a Critically Endangered saproxylic hoverfly to a Scottish forest ecosystem. Insect Conservation and Diversity. https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/icad.70001
   

Methods and aims: The proposed project aims to better understand factors that influence whether surrogate breeding habitat is used by gravid female Pine Hoverflies for oviposition.

Factors such as the shape and depth of holes, light levels, humidity and plant chemistry (eg turpines etc) could be investigated in the field from May to June, in relation to the number of larvae recorded in September/October (these data could be made available if the timing doesn't work).

A long run of data on stump and trough condition (eg whether holding water) and numbers of larvae recorded could be utilised. Subject to RZSS approval, there may be scope to study Pine Hoverfly behaviour in the captive-breeding facilities at Highland Wildlife Park.  
 

Project type: MSc field research 
Overview: To assess how far reintroduced Pine Hoverflies will disperse from their release sites in the Cairngorms, through both experimental field study at the RSPB's Abernethy nature reserve and data analysis for sites across Strathspey. Plus identifying potential areas for them to colonise through habitat mapping. 

Contact: Genevieve Tompkins and Annie Ives: rare.invertebrates@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: May to June and September to October 2026 
Location: Cairngorms, Scotland 
Resources available: Data, training and access to RSPB reserves
Key rquirements: Driving licence and own transport essential 

Background: The Pine Hoverfly is one of the UK's most threatened species. It’s restricted to the Caledonian pinewoods in the Scottish Highlands, with the remnant population confined to one indigenous site. Conservation efforts to expand its population, made by a long-standing partnership of organisations, are concentrating on supplementation of its breeding habitat using cut stumps and troughs filled with wood chip to mimic pine heart-rot, plus captive breeding and translocation.  
 
A previous PhD study investigated the rates of development of larvae and different types of substrate used within the stumps/troughs (Rotheray EL et al. 2015. Ecological Entomology, DOI: 10.1111/een.12269).  

Since 2021, Pine Hoverfly larvae and adults have been released into four sites, including two sites at the RSPB’s Abernethy reserve, and the number of larvae have been monitored annually. The ultimate aim is to establish self-sustaining populations that are not dependent on these interventions and exist within natural rot-holes in mature pines. To get to this point we wish to optimise the surrogate breeding habitat we are providing and this study should help us do this.  
 
Further reading: 

• Taylor HR, Rotheray E, Elliott A, MacGowan I, Sears J and Tompkins G (2021) Hovering on the edge of extinction: efforts to save the pine hoverfly. British Wildlife. 32: 547–554. 

• Taylor HR, Allott C, Tompkins G, The Pine Hoverfly Steering Group, MacGowan I (2025). A large-scale conservation breeding and translocation programme to reintroduce a Critically Endangered saproxylic hoverfly to a Scottish forest ecosystem. Insect Conservation and Diversity. https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/icad.70001  
   

Methods and aims: The aims are to: 

1. analyse the existing long-term data set of occupied stumps and troughs, including ones colonised naturally by the reintroduced hoverflies, to assess likely dispersal distances;

2. map suitable habitat within the potential dispersal range to establish the level of connectivity between populations (eg recording presence of forage plants, mature pine trees and any natural heart rot observed);

3. test dispersal distances by setting up a trial of cut stumps at varying distances from release sites and seeing which ones are used by breeding females.  

This would involve larval surveys in September and October – if this timing doesn't work the survey data can be made available.  
 
The dispersal experiment could be carried out at the RSPB's Abernethy nature reserve and use similar methods to that for the Aspen Hoverfly, Hammerschmidtia ferruginea – see Rotheray E L et al. (2014) Journal of Insect Conservation DOI 10.1007/s10841-014-9627-7.

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: Breeding waders are sensitive to tree planting but most previous research on woodland edge effects has focused on upland settings. This project will use existing datasets to explore woodland edge effects in lowland settings and predict the consequences of alternative tree planting scenarios. 

Contact: Robert Hawkes: robert.hawkes@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: 4 to 5 months
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data and training

Background: The UK government has a target to increase tree cover from 14.5% to 16.5% by 2050. Whilst this commitment will provide a key delivery pathway to the government's Net Zero ambitions, it has the potential to negatively impact biodiversity if implemented in the wrong place.  
 
Breeding waders are particularly sensitive to woodland planting, both directly through the loss of open habitat and indirectly through woodland edge effects (eg via predation risks).  
 
Up until now most work on woodland-wader impacts has focused on upland systems where the threat from afforestation has been particularly pertinent. However, given the context of the government’s afforestation commitment, tree planting will become more commonplace in lowland landscapes, where knowledge on wader impacts is comparatively sparse. Evidence from key lowland systems is urgently needed to address this knowledge gap and inform policy.  
 

Methods and aims: This project has two aims: 

1. Using existing extensive datasets on breeding wader distributions in their preferred lowland habitats (lowland wet grassland, arable, and heathland), you will explore woodland edge effects on wader densities and identify the critical distance threshold (ie how far negative effects are detected).  

2. Through a spatial scenario framework, you will uncover the effect of alternative tree planting strategies across multiple sensitive lowland landscapes.  
   
   There is also the potential to link up with similar, ongoing upland work to provide a complete UK-wide overview of woodland wader impacts. This is a desk-based project, but there will opportunities to visit some of the focal landscapes. 

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: A recently published study measured the relationship between habitat quality (ie floral resources) and quantity on pollinator abundance. The advertised project will extend this study by predicting the cost-effectiveness of different conservation strategies in 'synthetic' farmed landscapes. 

Contact: Tom Finch: tom.finch@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: 4 to 6 months
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data and training

Background: Insect pollinators have intrinsic value, but also play an important role in ecosystems in general, as well as for sustainable agriculture. For crops such as oilseed rape and field beans, wild pollinators can increase yields.

However, pollinator conservation comes at a cost. Improving the quantity of existing semi-natural habitat features for pollinators (for example by managing for higher floral resources) may require time, effort and financial outlay, whilst creating new habitats will likely involve removing agricultural land from production, with concomitant impacts on both revenue and food production. Any beneficial effect of pollinators on crop yields should be sufficient to offset these costs.  

Even when pollinators are unlikely to benefit agriculture (eg in cereal-dominated rotations, which are not dependent on insect pollinators), conservationists should seek cost-effective strategies which use limited resources efficiently. 

This modelling project will leverage existing datasets, including a recently published meta-analysis examining the response of pollinators to increasing habitat quantity and quality, to predict the cost-effectiveness of alternative pollinator conservation strategies in different 'synthetic' farmed landscapes (varying, for instance, in current condition for pollinators, heterogeneity of productivity, etc.).  

Methods and aims: 

1. Estimate the gross costs (in both money and calories) of incrementally increasing habitat quality and quantity in different synthetic farmed landscapes. 

2. Predict the response of different pollinator groups to incrementally increasing habitat quality and quantity in different synthetic farmed landscapes. 

3. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of increasing habitat quality versus quantity for different pollinator groups in different synthetic farmed landscapes. 

4. If possible, explore whether the beneficial effect of pollinators on crop yield influences these conclusions.

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: The RSPB took over Hope Farm in Cambridgeshire in 2000, to demonstrate profitable nature-friendly farming. A 2015 study assessed the impact of our management on food production, birds and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Ten years later, we plan to update this analysis in light of recent changes in land management at the farm.

Contact: Tom Finch: tom.finch@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: 4 to 6 months
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data and training

Background: The RSPB took over Hope Farm in Cambridgeshire in 2000 to demonstrate, research, and promote profitable nature-friendly farming. Since then, we have created small areas of wildlife habitat and diversified the crop rotation. In the last 10 years, we have implemented and tested more regenerative practices to reduce our reliance on pesticides and artificial inputs (though the farm is not managed to organic standards). 

A 2015 study found that although food production had fallen by 9.6% (food energy) since 2000, breeding birds had increased by 177% and GHG emissions had reduced by 9.4%. Hope Farm therefore demonstrates that the tension between nature-friendly farming and food can be modest.  

Scenarios can be used to compare the costs and benefits of alternative approaches – for example, what if we had made no changes, adopted a less targeted approach to nature-friendly farming, or a land-sparing approach involving the conversion of entire fields to unfarmed habitat? Understanding the pros and cons of these different approaches to farm management is critical at a time when society is demanding an increasing range of objectives from farmed land. 

A decade on, an update of our 2015 analysis is needed to understand, for example, the consequences of more recent changes in farm management, any levelling-off in the response of breeding birds, and the effect of changing weather patterns. 

Methods and aims: 

1. Collate data from Hope Farm (on cropping patterns, yields, bird surveys, GHG emissions) and beyond (eg regional bird trends and yields). 

2. Report trends in measured outcomes at Hope Farm and compare to the wider region. 

3. Design a business-as-usual counterfactual to understand the impact of RSPB management on measured outcomes. 

4. Design and test alternative farm management scenarios. 

5. If possible, collate and report equivalent data from other nature-friendly farms. 

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: Invasive Rhododendron is one of the top threats affecting Scotland's rainforest and removing it is a key conservation action. This GIS-focused project will use data on Rhododendron removal from the Saving Morvern's Rainforest project to explore the factors influencing removal and aim to improve predictions of the time and resources required for ongoing and future removal projects. 

Contact: Lucy Mason: lucy.mason@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: Until position is filled 
Timescale: Any time before the end of 2026 
Location: Remote/desk-based project, but occasional visits to Morvern peninsula recommended
Resources available: Data, training and access to RSPB reserves
Key requirements: Access to a computer with GIS is essential. Confident use of GIS and common statistical techniques is also essential. 

Background: Rhododendron is one of the main threats affecting Scotland's rainforest. It is non-native, very invasive, fast growing and quickly spreads, making conditions unsuitable for the lichens, mosses and plant communities for which Scotland's rainforest is so important.  
 
Removing Rhododendron is one of the key actions involved in restoring and conserving Scotland's rainforest, and the RSPB aims to eradicate it from the Morvern peninsula as part of the Saving Morvern's Rainforest project.  
 
Locating all the Rhododendron in remote and inaccessible Scottish landscapes is very difficult, and it's even harder to remove Rhododendron once located. Rhododendron survey data is used to predict the cost and time required for removal, but once the removal work is underway these estimates quickly become outdated as the Rhododendron is constantly growing and expanding. Some sites are also easier and some sites harder to deal with than expected. 

We need to better understand what factors are important in influencing the actual cost and time required on the ground to help better plan future Rhododendron clearance throughout the Scottish rainforest zone. 

Methods and aims: This project will make use of spatial Rhododendron survey data collected before and during Rhododendron control on Morvern, in addition to other freely available GIS datasets, to: 

1. Ask what influences the time and resources required for Rhododendron removal. 

2. Predict the time and resource requirements for future clearance activities.  

This would be ideal for a desk-based GIS-focused project, with freedom for the student to identify and acquire suitable spatial and temporal GIS datasets to represent the factors involved in influencing Rhododendron removal.  

These could include landscape accessibility (roads, tracks, parking), indices of remoteness, slope and aspect, habitat types, weather conditions (monthly days of high winds, storm frequency), Rhododendron growth rate predictions etc.  

Although primarily desk-based, it would also be useful for the student to visit Rhododendron clearance work on Morvern at the start of the project to help understand the factors influencing Rhododendron removal. 

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: Song Thrushes have undergone large declines on UK farmland but the causes are largely unknown. This project will utilise a rich demographic dataset (nest records, ring resightings, breeding surveys) collected from stable and declining populations to understand the drivers of decline.

Contact: Will Peach: will.peach@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 1 October 2026
Timescale: Flexible
Location: Remote/desk-based project
Resources available: Data

Background: The UK population of Song Thrushes declined by approximately 60% between 1975 and 1995. Analyses of national demographic data have suggested the decline may have been driven by mortality at the post-fledging and adult stages (Robinson et al. 2014, Methods in Ecology and Evolution).  

There is uncertainty as to the importance of the number of nesting attempts and the environmental drivers of decline.   

During the period 1995–2000 the RSPB undertook a detailed comparative demographic field study of Song Thrushes in two contrasting populations. One on mixed farmland in Sussex was stable and the other on arable farmland in Essex was rapidly declining. In both study areas standardised methods were employed to measure nesting success, the number of nesting attempts and post fledging survival (from ring resightings).  

There are also many casual resightings of colour-ringed thrushes that may allow the estimation of adult and first-year survival. Various covariate data are available that might explain spatial and temporal demographic variation including chick biometrics and diet, local habitat composition and quality, predator abundance and local weather.     

Methods and aims: This rich dataset has never been fully analysed and has the potential to provide detailed demographic insights into the effects of land use intensity on a widespread declining species. The main research questions are:  

1. What are the main demographic drivers of population change? 

2. Which environmental factors best explain demographic variation? 

The data may be suitable for the application of Bayesian Integrated Population Models (IPMs) as proposed by Kery and Schaub (Bayesian Population Analysis using WinBUGS, 2012). 

Preliminary analyses suggest thrushes in the declining population made fewer nesting attempts (an aspect of demography not measured by national schemes) and consequently had lower productivity than the stable population. We expect the data are strong enough to support a publication in a peer-reviewed international journal. 

Project type: MSc field research 
Overview: The Yellowhammer was once widespread on farmland throughout Ireland but now has a limited breeding range and is Red-listed. The objective of this study is to determine breeding densities and habitat associations of Yellowhammers in the Causeway Coast area of Northern Ireland. 

Contact: Anne Guichard and Gillian Gilbert: Anne.guichard@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: Fieldwork up to mid-July 
Location: North Coastal County Antrim farmland, Northern Ireland 
Key requirements: Driving licence and own transport essential 

Background: The Yellowhammer, Emberiza citrinella, is a small, granivorous farmland bird that was formerly widespread and abundant on farmland throughout Ireland. Range contraction has followed the changing patterns of farming practice in Ireland and is linked to available winter and summer food sources.

In Northern Ireland the core population is in County Down, and conservation efforts focus on this area. However, some suitable habitat and some Yellowhammers persist in the north Antrim coastal area, and it would be useful to have an up-to-date assessment of this.  
 
A better understanding of the status of the north Antrim Yellowhammer population and its habitat associations will help to inform farmers and conservation advisors keen to protect and improve the habitat available to these birds. 

Methods and aims: Yellowhammer abundance and distribution will be measured alongside habitat availability. The results of status and habitat associations will be related to other similar surveys.

A breeding season survey of Yellowhammers will take place according to access permissions and following standard methodology. The survey will require habitat mapping, and two survey visits to map the locations of Yellowhammers. 

Project type: MSc analytical 
Overview: Invasive seeding of non-native conifers from plantations threatens open habitats and restoration sites. This study will use LiDAR data to map and model conifer spread around plantations, identifying high-risk areas and informing strategies to protect priority habitats and biodiversity. 

Contact: Mike Shewring: mike.shewring@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: Until position is filled  
Timescale: ~ 3 months 
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data

Background: Natural regeneration of non-native conifers beyond plantation boundaries represents an emerging and under-recognised threat to open habitats, including priority ecosystems such as heathland, blanket bog, and montane grassland.  

Seed dispersal from mature plantations allows species such as Sitka Spruce and Lodgepole Pine to establish in surrounding landscapes, where they alter hydrology, outcompete native vegetation, and undermine costly habitat restoration investments.  

Despite widespread anecdotal evidence of spread, there is currently no systematic assessment of the spatial extent or risk factors driving plantation escape across the UK.  

This project will use nationally available LiDAR data to fill that evidence gap. By mapping conifer presence in randomly selected 1-km² cells around plantations and analysing how occurrence varies with distance, elevation, exposure, and plantation type, we will quantify invasion risk and identify vulnerable habitat types.  

The findings will directly inform conservation policy and forest design planning, guiding where control efforts, buffer zones, or restoration defences are most needed.  

The study will provide an evidence base to protect open landscapes from encroachment, supporting biodiversity targets, peatland carbon integrity, and the restoration aims of the Nature Recovery Network. 

Methods and aims: This project will assess the risk posed by invasive seeding of non-native conifers from plantations into surrounding open habitats. Using existing LiDAR datasets across Wales and England, we will map conifer presence in a stratified random sample of 1-km² cells at varying distances and orientations from plantation edges.  

By modelling the density and spread patterns of natural regeneration, we will identify key risk factors, evaluate the extent of conifer invasion pressure, and develop criteria to prioritise high-risk areas for management and restoration protection. 

Project type: MSc analytical 
Overview: Based on two recent surveys for Willow Tits and habitat, we wish to analyse the data to understand whether changes in distribution are related to habitat or geographical location, to support a developing landscape management project for this species.

Contact: Jacqui Weir and Paul Bellamy: jacqueline.weir@rspb.org.uk

Closing date: 31 January 2026 
Timescale: Anytime  
Location: South-west Peak District or remotely 
Resources available: Data, and knowledge about access and landowners for surveys 

Background: The Willow Tit is one of the UK’s fastest declining bird species, and it has been lost from much of its former range in the south and east England. This species is associated with early successional woodland on damp soils or next to water.  

During the last National Willow Tit survey in 2019 the area around the south-east edge of the Peak District was identified as one of the remaining strongholds for the species. Since then, local interest has developed into ambitions for a landscape management project involving the collation of recent records and repeat surveys by volunteers. 

Repeat surveys in 2025 and 2026 aim to assess where Willow Tits remain to determine if the populations are declining and which habitats are important.  

This project aims to analyse the location and habitat data collected by volunteers from the two survey periods. The outcomes will feed into a wider project being developed to identify gaps in the habitat network and encourage landowners to manage and create habitat to support a sustainable population. 

Methods and aims: This project aims to identify if there has been a recent range contraction or population change and whether this is linked to habitat features, which can be used to inform land management within the study area.  

The student will use Willow Tit location and habitat data to identify if changes are due to habitat or whether it is a general contraction of range unrelated to habitat. While this is mainly analysis of existing data using spatial generalised linear models, there is an opportunity to collect more detailed habitat data based on existing methods in addition to using basic habitat categories used in the national survey. 

Project type: MSc analytical 
Overview: The St Helena Plover or 'Wirebird' is endemic to the island of St Helena in the South Atlantic. There are only around 600 Wirebirds in the world and this project will aim to inform their conservation by using 14 years of nesting data to understand their nesting habitat requirements and long-term trends in nesting dynamics.

Contact: Harry Marshall: harry.marshall@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: 4 to 5 months 
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data and training  

Background: The St Helena Plover (locally known as the Wirebird) is endemic to St Helena in the South Atlantic and the global population numbers around 600 birds. One of the main threats to this species is thought to be changes in land management practices and the encroachment of invasive plant species into breeding habitats.  

To inform what conservation action is needed to address this threat we need to understand: 

1. How nesting densities and distributions have changed over time.  

2. What habitat characteristics provide more favourable nesting habitat.  

The St Helena National Trust, supported by the RSPB, has been monitoring Wirebird nesting since 2011. This has produced a data set spanning 11 years and containing records of over 1,300 nests, which this project will use to address these research needs. 

Methods and aims: This project will use the long-term Wirebird nest monitoring data set to: 

1. Assess how nesting densities and distribution have changed over time.  

2. Investigate what habitat characteristics determine nest site choice and nesting success. 

We envisage this will involve a mixture of GIS and statistical analysis to map the distribution of nests across years, match these to remotely sensed data on habitat characteristics (such as habitat type, altitude and slope) and then analyse trends in the resulting extracted data.  

The student would work with the St Helena National Trust (the RSPB's partner on St Helena) to help develop their project and ensure it produced outputs that informed the Trust's conservation activities.  

Project type: MSc analytical 
Overview: Investigate the thermal niches of endangered endemic species across UK Overseas Territories. Using downscaled climate models, the study will assess projected changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea level, to predict potential habitat shifts and vulnerability of priority species under future climate scenarios. 

Contact: Louise Soanes: louise.soanes@rspb.org,uk 

Closing date: Ongoing 
Timescale: 4 to 6 months 
Location: Remote/desk-based project  
Resources available: Data

Background: The UK Overseas Territories are home to around 90% of the UK’s biodiversity, including a huge range of rare and unique species, with some found nowhere else in the world. However most of the UKOTs are extremely vulnerable to climate change impacts, yet our understanding of how future climate change will impact endemic threatened species is limited

Methods and aims: This MSc project will assess the potential impacts of climate change on endangered endemic species within the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs), focusing on projected shifts in habitat suitability under future climate scenarios.  

Using high-resolution downscaled climate models and sea level rise predictions, the study will evaluate how changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea level, may alter the thermal and ecological niches of selected species.  

The project will focus on one or two priority species, such as representatives from St Helena and the Caribbean, where sufficient ecological and climatic data are available.  

By integrating species distribution data, local weather station records, and habitat maps, the student will model potential changes in suitable habitat and explore the likelihood of elevational or spatial range shifts in response to warming and drying trends.  

This desk-based research will employ GIS and climate modelling tools to identify key areas of vulnerability and resilience. The results will contribute to understanding how climate change may threaten biodiversity in the UKOTs and inform conservation planning for priority species.  

The project is suitable for a student interested in climate modelling, biogeography, and conservation, ideally under supervision from a researcher experienced in climate data analysis. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: We want to better understand the distribution and behaviour of predators at Inishcreenry to inform our management of the reserve.

Contact: Nancy Reed: Nancy.reed@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026
Timescale: Early spring onwards 
Location: Inishcreenry, Lower Lough Erne, Fermanagh  
Resources available: Access to RSPB reserves, training and data 
Key requirements: Driving licence and own transport essential 

Background: We have recently acquired the Inishcreenry reserve in Fermanagh, a 60-hectare wetland site which supports breeding waders.  

We have resource to install predator fencing, and may also have the ability to carry out vertebrate control in order to boost the number of breeding waders. However, we first want to better understand which predators are present on the reserve, in what densities, and how they are distributed and using the reserve, in order to ensure that we put the available resources to the best possible use. 
 

Methods and aims: 

1. Gathering of data on predator distribution and abundance via scat transects, camera traps and observation. 

2. Surveying breeding waders using O'Brien and Smith methodology.  

3. Plotting of data using GIS.  

4. Statistical analysis of data to determine trends. 

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: The population status of Crested Tits in Scotland is poorly known. This project will make use of recent survey data to produce updated estimates of population size and change since the 1990s. 

Contact: Nick Wilkinson: nick.wilkinson@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: Until position is filled 
Timescale: 4 to 6 months 
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data 

Background: The Crested Tit is a charismatic songbird of conifer and mixed woodlands. Although widespread across much of Europe, Crested Tits in the UK are restricted to the pinewoods of northern Scotland.  

The best estimate of population size dates from a survey in the mid-1990s and is consequently out of date. The species’ limited range means that it is too scarce to be monitored by the annual Breeding Bird Survey.  

Increases in distribution recorded by the 2007–11 Bird Atlas may in part be due to improved observer effort. More recent data on Crested Tit numbers were collected during the last two national Capercaillie surveys. However, these surveys used a stratification for Capercaillie and sampled only part of the Crested Tit’s distribution.  

Using these survey data, the project will calculate updated estimates of Crested Tit density and abundance within the area of overlap and explore the potential for deriving range-wide estimates of population size. 

Methods and aims: Using datasets of Crested Tit counts recorded on line transect surveys during the winters of 2015/16 and 2021/22, together with multicovariate distance sampling analyses, the student will calculate estimates of density accounting for incomplete detection. Analyses will explore environmental and habitat covariates of detectability and density.  

GIS layers will be used to calculate the area and composition of woodlands within the Crested Tit’s distribution and that sampled during the 2015/16 and 2021/22 surveys. Estimates of abundance will be adjusted to account for incomplete counts of group sizes. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: This project combines fieldwork and analyses to study the response of birds to wood pasture creation. First, our team (including the student) will perform counts in sheep-grazed pasture, grazed wood pasture, ungrazed wood pasture and mature broadleaf woodlands. Then, we will calculate metrics such as abundance, diversity, and richness, for these habitats. 

Contact: Mo Verhoeven: mo.verhoeven@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 31 January 2026  
Timescale: Fieldwork: two weeks in late April and two weeks in late May. Analysis to follow 
Location: Cumbria Connect, Lowther Valley, Wild Haweswater
Resources available: Access to RSPB reserves, training, equipment, data and accommodation 
Key requirements: Driving licence essential. The student must also be fairly proficient at identifying bird species from audio and visual cues 

Background: Starting in 2019, much of the grassland within Cumbria Connect has transitioned into woody habitat mosaics. We monitor the response of multiple indicators to this change: soil, vegetation, carabids, moths, and birds.  

We also monitor birds in grasslands that haven’t changed and in mature broadleaf woodlands that already have an established bird community.  

This allows us to investigate the potential biodiversity benefits of wood pasture creation in Cumbria. And, to observe when these benefits may start to become apparent.  

Methods and aims: We want to calculate bird species metrics, such as abundance, diversity, and richness, for the four different habitats that we sample (see above). For this, we have set up 30 point-counts per habitat type (ie 120 point-counts in total). 

We perform five minutes of distance sampling at these points such that we can model detection probability, and we survey them in April and again in May to capture any temporal variability.  

The student is expected to help with these counts and therefore needs to be fairly proficient at identifying bird species from audio and visual cues. The student is also expected to analyse the data collected in 2026 and compare them to data collected in 2023–2025. Finally, a report detailing and discussing the results needs to be delivered. 

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: Solar farms are reshaping rural landscapes. This literature review will examine how different designs – from grazed and agrivoltaic systems to conventional or biodiversity-focused – affect food production, biodiversity, economics, and energy generation, helping guide sustainable solar expansion. 

Contact: Joshua Copping: joshua.copping@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 31 January 2026  
Timescale: Fieldwork: two weeks in late April and two weeks in late May. Analysis to follow 
Location: Remote/desk-based project. Desk space available in Cambridge. 

Background: The rapid expansion of solar energy is essential for meeting the UK’s net-zero targets and the Climate Change Committee’s ambition for 40 GW of solar capacity by 2035. However, this transition creates growing land use tensions, particularly in rural areas where solar farms may displace agriculture, affect biodiversity, and influence public acceptance of renewable energy. 
 
At the same time, innovative approaches such as grazed solar farms, agrivoltaic systems integrating crops beneath panels, and explicitly nature-positive designs offer opportunities to deliver clean energy alongside food production and biodiversity benefits. Evidence on the real-world performance of these systems is, however, fragmented and inconsistent, spanning academic studies, industry trials, and grey literature. 

This project will synthesise existing research to evaluate how different solar farm designs influence agricultural yields, livestock productivity, biodiversity outcomes, and energy generation. By consolidating available evidence, the review aims to identify key trade-offs and co-benefits, highlight knowledge gaps, and inform future land use planning and policy, to ensure solar deployment supports both climate and nature recovery goals.  

Key literature includes:  

• Copping JP, Field RH, Bradbury RB, Wright LJ and Finch T (2024) Ambitious onshore renewable energy deployment does not exacerbate future UK land-use challenges. Cell Reports Sustainability 1(8). 

• Copping JP, Waite CE, Balmford A, Bradbury RB, Field RH, Morris I and Finch T (2025) Solar farm management influences breeding bird responses in an arable-dominated landscape. Bird Study pp 1–6.

Methods and aims: The project aims to synthesise evidence on how different solar farm designs - conventional, grazed, agrivoltaic, and biodiversity-focused - affect agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and energy generation.  

Using peer-reviewed studies and grey literature from government, industry, and NGOs, the review will extract comparable data on yields, livestock performance, habitat outcomes, and energy output.  

The findings will identify trade-offs, co-benefits, and knowledge gaps to inform sustainable solar expansion and land-use policy. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: The Garron Plateau is an upland blanket bog region in Northern Ireland. Very little is known about the species occurrence and breeding success of birds in this area.  

Using passive bio-acoustic monitoring technology, we seek to gain more insight into the whereabouts and breeding behaviours of birds like Curlews, Hen Harriers and Merlins. 

Contact: Emma Denton emma.denton@rspb.org.uk  and Gillian Gilbert gillian.gilbert@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: Fieldwork: start of April to end of July. Analysis to follow 
Location: Garron Plateau, Antrim 
Resources available: Access to RSPB reserves, training, equipment, data and travel 
Key requirements: Driving licence and own transport essential. This project is dependent on two Masters students working together, due to the remote nature of the fieldwork. 

Background: The Garron Plateau is the largest area of blanket bog in Northern Ireland. The peatland supports an array of associated floral and faunal communities, including a number of rare and notable plant and animal species, and a diverse upland breeding bird population.  

Despite having multiple designations, including SAC, ASSI and SPA, the Garron Plateau is relatively unmonitored in terms of bird life, as it is a vast, upland area.  

Acoustic monitoring will provide a better sense of what species are breeding on the Plateau and where they are located. Acoustic data can also illustrate breeding behaviour, such as territorial calls and calls used to specifically communicate with chicks.  

From this information, we can infer fledgling success. This data may also reveal rare species and predation events.  Results can be correlated with habitat characteristics, relevant to each species of interest. 

Methods and aims: 

1. Deploying song metres in early spring and collecting devices following the breeding season. 

2. Analysing results using Kaleidoscope software (or similar) to infer species occurrence and breeding activity/fledgling success/predation events.  

3. Habitat quality can also be assessed at each acoustic sample area. This will involve completing Rapid Condition Assessments (RCAs) to determine suitability for various species. Habitat condition can be correlated to species occurrence and breeding behaviour. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: The Garron Plateau is an upland blanket bog region in Northern Ireland. Very little is known about the insects using this area. Using insect sampling techniques, we seek to gain more insight into the occurrence and abundance of upland insects, particularly those key to the food chains of priority species like Curlews, Hen Harriers and Merlins. 

Contact: Emma Denton emma.denton@rspb.org.uk  and Gillian Gilbert gillian.gilbert@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: Fieldwork: start of April to end of July. Analysis to follow 
Location: Garron Plateau, Antrim 
Resources available: Access to RSPB reserves, training, equipment, data and travel 
Key requirements: Driving licence and own transport essential. This project is dependent on two Masters students working together, due to the remote nature of the fieldwork. 

Background: The Garron Plateau is the largest area of blanket bog in Northern Ireland. The peatland supports an array of associated floral and faunal communities, including a number of rare and notable plant and animal species, and a diverse upland breeding bird population.  

Despite having multiple designations, including SAC, ASSI and SPA, Garron Plateau is relatively unmonitored in terms of insect life, as it is a vast, upland area.  

Invertebrate sampling at various locations across the Plateau will provide a sense of the quality of habitat for various species of birds. This may be correlated to plant diversity and/or water quality. 

Methods and aims: Using invertebrate sampling techniques at strategic locations (the same sites as for acoustic monitoring described in the previous project) to infer the abundance and variety of insects using the upland blanket bog habitat.  

Insect populations should be sampled at the beginning and end of the breeding season. Invertebrate data may be supplemented with habitat data to discover if there is a relationship between invertebrate abundance and plant diversity/water quality. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: Storm Petrel censuses typically employ an established 'playback' method, where the responses to a recorded petrel call are counted across a series of sampling locations. Interpretation of these data relies upon a correction factor to account for the fact that only some individuals will respond, and this provides a source of potential error in the resulting population estimates. 

This project will investigate factors that influence response rates and use this information to develop recommendations for a more robust and transferable method for the interpretation of playback survey data. 

Contact: Chris Heward and Connie Tremlett: christopher.heward@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 31 January 2026 
Timescale: May or June until September 
Location: Mostly remote/desk-based, but with several weeks fieldwork in July on Mousa, Shetland 
Resources available: Training, access to RSPB reserves, equipment, data, field-based 'accommodation' (ie camping) during data collection period, and assistance with data collection from volunteers 
Key requirements: Availability to participate in fieldwork on Shetland, from 11–26 July 2026 (minimum) is strictly necessary. Candidate must be comfortable living and working as part of a small team in a remote location with very limited facilities (camping). 

Background: Storm Petrel censuses use a 'playback' method where responses to a recorded petrel call are counted across a series of sampling locations. Population estimates rely upon a correction factor to account for the fact that only some individuals will respond, usually derived from colony- and year-specific calibration data. 

Correction factors vary greatly within/between colonies and years; a possible cause for concern when comparing between surveys (eg when assessing population change over time). Although colony- and year-specific response rates and correction factors could reflect real differences between sites and years, it is more likely to originate from the scale and method of calibration data collection.  

In addition to factors relating to site/plot (eg nest density, habitat type), individual-based characteristics, such as the responding birds’ sexes, breeding statuses, and personalities are expected to influence response rate.  

Different calibration plots will consist of a subset of birds with different traits and personalities, and this variability may have an undesirably strong influence on the final correction factor, especially where calibration plots are small or data collection is confined to a short time period.  

Understanding the degree of individual-based variation in response rate attributable to the above-mentioned factors will help identify and quantify sources of colony and year-specific variation and may be a useful step towards developing a universal correction factor. 

Methods and aims: 

We want to establish:  

1. How does response rate correspond with known occupancy/breeding status/personality type?  

2. Are the varying response rates produced by different calibration plots a reflection of the individuals present?  

3. At what scale is the influence of individual-based variation no longer detectable between calibration plots? 

The necessary data required to answer these questions will be collected during a field-based census of the Storm Petrel population on Mousa, Shetland. This dataset can be strengthened with a wider sample of calibration data from historic petrel censuses. 
 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: Populations of White-rumped Vultures have increased rapidly in Nepal over the past decade, after being almost driven to extinction through accidental poisoning by the veterinary drug diclofenac. 

This study aims to analyse seven years of GPS tracking data to investigate movement and foraging patterns. There will also be scope to develop one's own ideas. 

Contact: John Mallord: john.mallord@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 1 February 2026 
Timescale: February to August 
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Data
Key requirements: Knowledge of tracking analytical techniques or specialist university supervisor essential 

Background: Since 2017, ca.150 White-rumped Vultures have been fitted with GPS transmitters and the aims of this study are to quantify the movement and space use patterns of this endangered species in Nepal, and start to understand the underlying drivers of individual and spatial differences. 

Methods and aims: 

Study topics will include:  

1. Estimation of movement parameters (eg daily distance travelled and space use).  

2. Comparison of wild vs released birds, according to age, breeding status and seasonal differences. 

3. Quantifying time spent at places providing predictable food sources (eg vulture restaurants, cow shelters, municipal carcass dumps) and the effect this has on movement parameters.  

4. Trans-boundary movements. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: Livestock, particularly sheep, may influence wader nest survival. We are looking for two students to work closely as a team to collect field data on wader nest survival under different livestock densities and in the presence/absence of livestock exclusion fencing, in the area covered by the Clyde Valley Wader Initiative in Scotland. 

Contact: Lucy Mason: lucy.mason@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 31 January 2026 
Timescale: Fieldwork from beginning of April to end of June 
Location: Clyde Valley, Scotland (south of Glasgow/Edinburgh) 
Resources available: Training, equipment, data and accommodation 
Key requirements: Driving licence essential. Student must not be scared of livestock or of working in remote habitats and must be willing to work as part of a team. 

Background: Low breeding success is the primary driver behind the rapid population declines of breeding waders such as Lapwings, Redshanks, Curlews and Oystercatchers throughout the UK and Europe. Recent studies have shown that livestock, particularly sheep, may be contributing to this low breeding success on farmland, but the extent of this effect and how it varies under different livestock densities and grazing practices is unknown. 

The Clyde Valley has been the site of important wader conservation work since 2008, where the Clyde Valley Wader Initiative has developed strong links between farmers, gamekeepers, conservationists and land managers to protect and improve breeding habitats for waders.  

This landscape offers a perfect place to investigate wader nest survival under different livestock densities, and to test the effectiveness of temporary livestock exclusion fencing to protect key wader nesting areas. 

Methods and aims: We are looking for two students who can work together to find and monitor Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew and Oystercatcher nests with trail cameras and temperature dataloggers across a range of farmland habitats.  

Fieldwork will also involve counting and mapping livestock numbers and locations to assess stocking densities, recording the timing of grazing in each field where waders are nesting, and assessing vegetation and sward structure characteristics inside and outside electric livestock exclusion fencing.  

There could also be an element of predator monitoring (timed watches for avian predators, scat transects, trail cameras to determine mammalian predator species and activity).

Project type: MSc analytical
Overview: The Black Grouse is a Red-listed species of conservation concern, and it is important to identify interventions promoting population recovery.  

This project will analyse long-term data on lek counts and land use at a key site in northern England, testing potential correlates of population change including grazing, woodland creation, disease and weather. 

Contact: David Douglas: david.douglas@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 31 January 2026 
Timescale: 4 to 5 months 
Location: Remote/desk-based project 
Resources available: Training, data, access to RSPB reserves 

Background: At this site, Black Grouse have shown varying trends over time, with periods of population increase and decrease.  

Conservation interventions deployed, such as alteration of grazing densities, a switch from sheep to cattle grazing, and native woodland creation, have the potential to promote population recovery.  

Other factors, such as high summer rainfall or severe winter weather, or potential disease transfer from other bird species, have the potential to cause population decline. 

Methods and aims: The aim is to identify factors associated with population change of Black Grouse at the site, to inform conservation delivery.  

Using existing grouse, habitat, land use and weather data, the student will examine correlates of population change over time. Analytical methods could include spatial and temporal approaches and there may be a need for GIS methods.  

Although this project is desk-based, the student will have the opportunity to spend time at the site, to familiarise themselves with the landscape, habitat and land use. 

Project type: MSc field research
Overview: Deadwood is a crucial part of a healthy forest: it supports a wide diversity of species and is essential for ecosystem function. This project will collect new data to compare the ecological effects of different methods of deadwood creation on one key component of forest biodiversity: deadwood beetles. 

Contact: Pip Gullett: pip.gullett@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 1 February 2026 
Timescale: Field/microscope work from June to August (end date flexible). If student would require data for their thesis earlier than this, then existing data could be used from April 2026. 
Location: RSPB Abernethy nature reserve, Scotland  
Resources available: Data, equipment, training and access to RSPB reserves 
Key requirements: It may be possible to offer accommodation close to the field sites, but it may be necessary for the student to provide their own. Student must either have a driving licence or be happy travelling to field sites by bike. Own transport preferable. 

Background: Deadwood is an essential part of a healthy forest. It’s home to a huge diversity of flora and fauna, which together play a vital role in recycling nutrients through the forest ecosystem, as well as being sources of food for other creatures.  

In planted forests the amount and variety of deadwood is often far lower than that present in woodland of more natural origin.

At RSPB Abernethy, efforts to restore former plantations to ecologically rich, naturally functioning forests over recent decades has involved actively increasing the deadwood resource (so called ‘plantation restructuring’), both by killing trees and leaving trees in situ when they die.

To find out how well this is working to restore the forests to healthier, functioning ecosystems, and how different methods of deadwood creation compare in their ecological impacts, Cairngorms Connect has been monitoring one particularly crucial species group: deadwood beetles. 

Methods and aims: In 2020, Cairngorms Connect set up an experimental trial to compare responses of deadwood beetles to three commonly used methods of deadwood creation (ring-barking, felling, winching). The invertebrate community was monitored using flight interception traps during the summer the year before and in the two years after deadwood creation.

This project would carry out repeat monitoring five years after deadwood creation, to monitor longer-term effects. The student would assist with: 

1. Collecting fortnightly samples from June to August. 

2. Processing the samples with use of a microscope. 

3. Identifying invertebrates to Order level (Coleoptera would be processed by an expert entomologist).  

If course timeline would require the student to work on data prior to these new data becoming available, they would have access to existing data collected from 2020 to 2023. 

Project type: Varied, see individual projects 
Overview: The Alliance for Scotland's Rainforest research working group is also advertising ideas for MSc projects relating to temperate rainforest in Scotland.

You can find them listed here.

Contact: Alternatively, contact Lucy Mason for more details: lucy.mason@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: Varied, see individual projects 
Timescale: Varied, see individual projects 
Location: Varied, see individual projects 

Background: The RSPB is a part of the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest, a voluntary partnership of organisations with a shared interest in helping Scotland’s rainforest to thrive once again. Saving Scotland’s Rainforest is a programme led by the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest to protect and restore this globally important habitat. 

Project type: PhD 
Overview: The Aspen Hoverfly, Hammerschmidtia ferruginea, has a very limited population distribution. It is present at only eight sites in Strathspey, most of which are likely to be genetically isolated from each other.  

In an attempt to restore it to its historic range, which included Deeside, a trial translocation of eight larvae from two sites was carried out in 2019. Despite the small number of founders, this population has persisted.  

Before supplementation is carried out it is important to know what level of genetic diversity exists within the Strathspey populations. It also provides an opportunity to study the development of a new population from a small number of founders. 

Contact: Genevieve Tompkins and Annie Ives: rare.invertebrates@rspb.org.uk 

Closing date: 28 February 2026 
Timescale: Field work in mid-May to late June, for adult flight-period 
Location: Cairngorms, Scotland 
Resources available: Data, training and access to RSPB reserves 
Key requirements: Driving licence and own transport essential 

Background: The Aspen Hoverfly is one of the UK's most threatened species, restricted to the mature Aspen woodland in the Scottish Highlands where it breeds in the rotting cambium of large decaying Aspen trees (see Rotheray et al. 2009.  Journal of Insect Conservation 13, 569–574).  

Conservation efforts to expand its population, made by a long-standing partnership of organisations, are concentrating on maintaining a continuous supply of suitable breeding habitat and restoring it to its former range in Deeside, through translocation.  

A previous Masters study investigated dispersal distances and found a maximum of 5km, which suggests that many of the populations are likely to be isolated.  

A study of its genetics would inform just how genetically isolated these populations are and whether they have undergone a bottleneck. It would also inform further translocation and supplementation methods.   

Methods and aims: The proposed project aims to investigate the genetics of the population of Aspen Hoverflies in Strathspey, comparing different populations, to better understand the degree of genetic isolation between the existing populations and to determine the best approach to further translocation and supplementation.  

Material may be sourced through the sacrifice of adults late in the breeding season, or by extracting DNA from empty puparial cases if possible.