Project Overview: This PhD project, based at the University of Southampton, investigates the impact of livestock grazing on carbon cycles and climate change by integrating satellite Earth observation, fieldwork, and artificial intelligence. The research aims to model ecosystem processes, scale findings from the UK to global levels, and assess the broader implications for agriculture and supply chains. Students will develop expertise in sustainability science and data-driven innovation, preparing for diverse careers in research, policy, and industry. Research Focus: Agriculture, especially livestock grazing, is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. This project addresses the urgent need to understand how grazing systems influence carbon storage and greenhouse gas fluxes. The student will combine satellite remote sensing, field measurements, and advanced machine learning to analyze the effects of livestock management on carbon dynamics. Fieldwork will be conducted at the North Wyke site of Rothamsted Research, providing hands-on experience with eddy covariance flux towers, GPS surveys, and land monitoring. On the computational side, the project leverages vision-language models to extract information from hyperspectral and high-resolution satellite imagery, linking ecosystem processes to agricultural practices. The student will learn process-based ecosystem modelling and data assimilation to enhance carbon cycle simulations, with the goal of scaling up results from local to national and global contexts. Integration of climate data with trade and supply chain information will enable a comprehensive assessment of livestock production's impact on sustainability and food security. Training and Environment: The IGNITE programme offers extensive personal and professional development, including hands-on training in eddy covariance flux measurements, GPS data collection, land surveys, data analysis, academic writing, and research dissemination. Advanced instruction in data assimilation, machine learning, deep learning, and Google Earth Engine applications is provided. The student will work within an interdisciplinary research group, collaborating with experts in AI, Earth observation, and agriculture at the University of Southampton, Rothamsted Research, and industry partners. Funding: The IGNITE Doctoral Landscape Award funds PhD researchers for 3.5 years (full- or part-time), providing a tax-free stipend at the UKRI standard rate (£20,780 for 2025/26), full Home tuition fees, an international fee waiver, and a Research Training Support Grant of £2,200 per year (£7,700 total). Eligibility: Applicants must have a UK bachelor’s degree with upper second-class honours or higher in a relevant subject, or an international equivalent. English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in all components, or equivalent) is required. Both UK and international students are eligible, but only up to 30% of studentships can be awarded to international applicants. The programme encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and offers a guaranteed interview scheme for qualifying UK applicants from racially minoritised groups. Application Process: Applications must be submitted by 11:59pm on 8 January 2026 via the University of Southampton's online portal. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the lead supervisor to discuss suitability before applying. Applicants may apply for up to two projects but are advised to tailor their application to one. Both full-time and part-time study options are available. For further details, visit the project page or contact nerc-dla@soton.ac.uk .