New opportunities for students to take on rainforest research projects
Last year, the ASR’s Rainforest Research Working Group posted its first ever list of dissertation topics for students. Academic research such as this is incredibly important, and compliments practical rainforest restoration work currently taking place up and down the west of Scotland.
We’re pleased to say that the projects proved very popular, and the success of this research so far has prompted further dissertation topics for this year.
How to get involved
If you’re a Masters student currently working towards an MSc or an MRes, then you can be a part of this important, and potentially ground-breaking, research.
If you’re interested in one of the projects below and you are already enrolled on an MSc course at a university and fulfil the requirements listed in the project brief, send an e-mail with “MSc project” as the subject to the relevant supervisor listed below.
If you would like more information about our Research Working Group itself and how to join us, please contact Lucy Mason.
Rhododendron ponticum flower. Credit Jenny Tweedie
Improving predictions of rhododendron removal costs
Invasive Rhododendron ponticum 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.
Supervisor: Lucy Mason (RSPB Scotland)
Timescale: Any time, ideally before end of 2026
Project type: Desk-based
Location: Any (desk-based project), but occasional visits to Morvern peninsula recommended
Closing date: Until position filled
For more information, please read this project brief.
The Skipinnish oak growing in a PAWS. Credit Gus Routledge
Increasing lichen and bryophyte diversity in PAWS
Understanding how stand management techniques impact lichen and bryophyte diversity within Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS) in the Temperate Rainforest zone would enable restoration actions to be directed to benefit biodiversity in PAWS.
Supervisor: Rachel Warmington (Plantlife)
Timescale: 2025-26
Project type: Field research
Location: Field based, in temperate rainforest region
Closing date: Until position filled
For more information, please read this project brief.
