Post-doc: coastal protection functions of ecosystems

A post-doc or experienced graduate is needed to support a new project in Cambridge to review and quantify the role and efficacy of marine ecosystems in coastal protection (wave attenuation, erosion reduction, soil accretion, storm impact modification...). Such studies are intended to develop the case for using coastal ecosystems in place of, or alongside, hard engineering solutions where they would form an appropriate solution to coastal adaptation challenges. The work will include a major review of published and grey literature; development of a database of case studies; and communications through web-based reporting, public and policy communications and academic publications.

The applicant will work closely with international partners through a scientific advisory team, and there will be some travel, including the co-ordination of workshops.

Applicants should have experience of coastal ecosystems (saltmarsh, mangrove, seagrass and/or reefs) and an ability to research (and communicate) their coastal protection functions in terms of physical as well as ecological coastal processes. Experience with coastal planning and engineering would be an advantage.

Work will be likely be based the Department of Geography, University of Cambridge and could start immediately. Initially for a 12-18 month period.