Project details
Flooding is increasing under climate change, with rainfall intensifying risks across climate zones. In the UK, flood defences are traditionally designed as static structures, overlooking the fact rivers are dynamic systems transporting sediment, wood, and nutrients. This disconnect can lead to underperforming flood assets, where sediment accumulation, blockage, or erosion reduces efficiency and amplifies flood hazards. Reservoirs and embankments, while critical for flood protection, may disrupt sediment connectivity, and their failure can deliver catastrophic pulses of water and sediment downstream.
This project will combine numerical simulations, field observations, and stakeholder engagement to address three core research questions:
- How does sediment transport reduce the efficiency and resilience of flood assets, and how might this change under future climates?
- What are the spatial patterns and drivers of sediment-related underperformance in UK flood assets, and how do these influence flood amplification?
- How effective are emerging low-cost monitoring techniques (e.g., UAV surveys, citizen science, remote sensing) in detecting and managing sediment retention?
By bridging geomorphology, engineering, and stakeholder perspectives, the project will deliver new insights into the role of sediment in shaping flood risk. Its outcomes will inform asset management strategies, improve sustainability of flood protection, and support climate adaptation policy.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Professor Quihua Liang
Secondary supervisor: Dr Josh Wolstenholme
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants must already have, or expect to shortly graduate with, a very good undergraduate or master’s degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree) – or an equivalent international qualification from a high ranking university – in a relevant subject.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2026-27 entry
UK fee
Fully funded Full-time degree per annum
International fee
Fully funded Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2026-27 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2026, February 2027 and July 2027.UK tuition fees for 2026/27 are currently to be confirmed pending the release of the UKRI recommended rates. Once published, these rates will be subject to formal approval by the University before being confirmed.
Find out more about research degree funding
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
Studentship type – UKRI through Flood-CDT. The studentship is for 3.5 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Excellent International candidates are eligible for a full international fee waiver. Due to UKRI funding rules, no more than 30% of the studentships funded by this grant can be awarded to International candidates, but successful International candidates will have the difference between the UK and International tuition fees provided by the University.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering. Please quote the advert reference FCDT-26-LU9 in your application. This PhD is being advertised as part of the Centre for Doctoral Training for Resilient Flood Futures (FLOOD-CDT). Further details about FLOOD-CDT can be seen on their website. Please note that your application will be assessed upon:
- Motivation and Career Aspirations
- Potential & Intellectual Excellence
- Suitability for specific project
- Fit to FLOOD-CDT
So please familiarise yourselves with FLOOD-CDT before applying. During the application process candidates will need to upload:
- A 1 page statement of your research interests in flooding and FLOOD-CDT and your rationale for your choice of project
- A curriculum vitae giving details of your academic record and stating your research interests
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (translated if not in English)
- An IELTS/TOEFL certificate, if applicable
You are encouraged to contact potential supervisors by email to discuss project specific aspects of the proposed project prior to submitting your application. If you have any general questions please contact floodcdt@soton.ac.uk.
