Training the next generation of environmental scientists

NERC is funding a network of Doctoral Training Partnerships to produce the next generation of environmental scientists across the UK. This matters because the UK faces complex environmental challenges—from climate change and biodiversity loss to pollution and resource security—that require skilled researchers who can work across disciplines. Currently, there is a gap between the demand for environmental expertise in academia, government, and industry, and the supply of well-trained scientists. These partnerships address that gap by providing structured, high-quality postgraduate training. If successful, this programme will create a pipeline of researchers equipped to tackle real-world problems. Their work could improve how we monitor air and water quality, predict extreme weather, manage land use, or restore ecosystems. It may also strengthen the UK’s ability to meet net-zero targets and adapt to a changing climate. The impact will be felt in policy decisions, business practices, and the resilience of natural systems that underpin the economy and public health. This is a training initiative, not a fundamental science project. Its direct output is skilled people, not new discoveries—but those people will go on to make the discoveries.