Newcastle University’s School of Engineering invites applications for a fully funded PhD opportunity within the NERC Centre for Doctoral Training in Resilient Flood Futures (FLOOD-CDT). Under the supervision of Prof. Hayley Fowler, this project offers an exceptional chance for a motivated researcher to contribute to next-generation climate resilience by developing a high-resolution blended precipitation dataset designed to transform UK flood prediction and hydrological modelling. Summary of Award This fully funded studentship provides: 100% coverage of tuition fees (Home and International). A minimum annual, tax-free living allowance of £20,780 (UKRI 2025/26 rate). Additional project-related research costs. The award duration is 3.5 years, beginning 1 October 2026. Project Overview Climate change is amplifying the frequency and severity of extreme rainfall events, presenting escalating challenges for flood risk management across the United Kingdom. Effective prediction relies on accurate, fine-scale rainfall information. However, existing precipitation datasets present critical limitations: Radar data often suffer from biases and inaccuracies. Rain gauges, while precise, cannot capture highly localised storm patterns due to low spatial density. Satellite products struggle to resolve extremes at sub-hourly timescales. This project aims to close that gap by producing a 15-minute, blended, quality-controlled UK precipitation dataset that integrates diverse observational sources. The outcome will be an openly accessible resource supporting improved hydrological forecasting, flood modelling, climate adaptation efforts, and national resilience planning. Research Objectives The PhD researcher will lead the development of an innovative, multi-source blended rainfall product through the following core components: High-Resolution Data Integration Combine observations from rain gauges, radar systems, and satellite platforms. Apply advanced coding, data science, and signal processing methods to harmonise heterogeneous inputs. Quality Control Framework Build a robust multi-stage QC workflow to identify data gaps, detect anomalies, and apply error corrections. Develop bias-adjustment techniques tailored to extreme rainfall characteristics. Dataset Merging and Modelling Experiment with state-of-the-art blending methods, including: Kriging and geostatistical interpolation Probabilistic merging approaches Machine learning–based fusion techniques Ensure extremes are represented realistically through tailored merging algorithms. Uncertainty Characterisation Quantify data uncertainty at multiple stages of the blending process. Provide clear metrics to help practitioners assess reliability in decision-making. Real-World Impact Produce a publicly accessible dataset optimised for flood modellers, water managers, and climate researchers. Support national organisations such as: UK Environment Agency Floods and Droughts Research Infrastructure (FDRI) Enable downstream applications in hydrological forecasting, infrastructure design, and resilience planning. Research Environment The successful applicant will join the Water and Climate Research Group at Newcastle University, a leading centre in hydrology, climate extremes, and environmental modelling. Researchers benefit from: World-class computational facilities Cross-disciplinary collaboration Industry and government partnerships A structured development programme through the FLOOD-CDT This environment offers strong pathways to publish high-impact research, influence policy, and contribute scientific advancements to climate resilience efforts both nationally and globally. Eligibility and Entry Requirements Applicants must hold, or be expected to obtain, at minimum: A 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as computing, engineering, environmental sciences, meteorology, hydrology, mathematics, or data science. Essential attributes include: Strong analytical and quantitative skills Ability to work independently and creatively Demonstrated interest in flooding, hydrology, or climate data Excellent written and verbal communication skills Additional notes: Both Home and International applicants (including EU candidates) are eligible. Non-native English speakers require IELTS 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component). International applicants may need ATAS clearance before obtaining a study visa. How to Apply Applications must be submitted via the Apply to Newcastle Portal: Create a Postgraduate Application. Search for the programme using code 8040F. Select PhD Civil Engineering (full time) under Research Area: Civil Engineering (Water Resources). In the “Further Details” section: Provide a Personal Statement outlining research interests and motivation for this project. Enter FLOOD262 in the Studentship/Partnership Reference field. Select “Write Proposal” and enter the project title (no proposal upload required). Upload supporting documents: CV Academic transcripts and certificates Language certificate (if required) Contact details for two academic referees VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. 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