PhD opportunity: Integrated modelling of ecological, physiological and reproductive impacts on chacma baboons

 Adaptation to an anthropogenic habitat: Integrated modelling of ecological, physiological and reproductive impacts on chacma baboons

As human-wildlife ‘conflicts’ become increasingly widespread worldwide, there is a growing need to understand how animals adjust to human-modified environments and the consequences of these adaptations for their reproduction and survival. We are looking for an enthusiastic prospective PhD student to join an international research team investigating how feeding at a local landfill site and other anthropogenic food resources influences the behaviour and physiology of chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) groups, in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
 
The project will involve fieldwork at an established field site in Alldays, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The student will gain experience in quantitative behavioural ecology methods, non-invasive hormone analysis from faecal sampling, statistical and social network analysis and possibility to develop their skills and experience in telemetry. The studentship would be based in the Anthropology Department at Durham, co-supervised by Professors Russ Hill and Ann MacLarnon, and by Dr Sophia Daoudi-Simoson (Newcastle)

 
Full project description can be found here (see also attahched): https://iapetus.ac.uk/studentships/adaptation-to-an-anthropogenic-habitat-integrated-modelling-of-ecological-physiological-and-reproductive-impacts-on-chacma-baboons/

We welcome interest from candidates with backgrounds in primatology, ecology, conservation biology, quantitative ecology or related disciplines. Experience with fieldwork, laboratory techniques or statistical analysis would be particularly relevant.

Please send any project enquiries to Prof. Ann MacLarnon: ann.m.maclarnon@durham.ac.uk

Funding
This project is advertised through the IAPETUS Doctoral Training Partnership at Durham University. Studentships are awarded through a competitive selection process, so funding is not guaranteed for this individual project. Successful applicants receive a funded PhD studentship.

Key dates
International studentships are limited to 30% of awards. International applicants: Please get in touch by 7 December 2026 to discuss sponsorship before applying.

Applications open: 6 November 2026

Application deadline: 5 January 2027, noon UK time

Application details can be found here: https://iapetus.ac.uk/how-to-apply/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Iapetus is committed to increasing participation in doctoral research from groups that have historically been underrepresented in postgraduate study. It offers a Widening Participation Scheme for applicants with UK Home fee status who are from UK minoritised ethnic groups, have lived in areas with historically low participation in higher education, or have a disability. Please see the application guidance for details.