Paul Griffiths

My PhD explores how substrate properties affect plant community assembly, invertebrate diversity, and associated ecosystem services, with the aim of informing future substrate–plant combinations. 

Using both industry-standard substrates and experimental substrates derived from sustainable mineral wastes, I compare substrate-driven niche filtering of standard green roof planting with experimental substrate-focused planting. By linking substrate chemistry and structure to biological responses across trophic levels, my research evaluates how different substrate–plant strategies establish and maintain resilient ecological function, and assesses how these systems align with or challenge existing habitat categorisation. 

Overall, my research seeks to bridge mechanistic ecological understanding with applied policy, informing more functionally grounded approaches to ecosystem restoration while contributing to reduced embodied carbon. 

I completed a BSc in Ecology and Conservation at Lancaster University, where I developed a strong foundation in ecological theory. This included a limestone pavement research internship, which strengthened my interest in plant communities shaped by distinct environmental constraints. 

I then undertook an MSc in Land and Ecological Restoration at the Eden Project, where I focused on applied ecology. My dissertation examined how alternative restoration approaches, including passive restoration and the facilitation potential of spontaneous vegetation, particularly the non-native species Buddleja davidii, can challenge conventional restoration paradigms, and how such novel ecosystems can emerge as part of local identity. 

Following my MSc, I spent two years working in ecological consultancy across the south-west of England. My work included protected species surveys, botanical surveys, mapping, and report writing. I particularly valued engagement with stakeholders, as humans are fundamentally ecological participants rather than separate from nature. 

My MSc dissertation was well received and confirmed both my aptitude for research and my enjoyment of developing original, critical perspectives on ecological problems. This experience showed me that research was a pathway through which I could make a meaningful contribution. 

My time in ecological consultancy highlighted the real-world impact of applied ecology, but also exposed the constraints imposed by existing practice and policy frameworks. These limitations reinforced my desire to return to evidence-based research to contribute more robust ecological understanding to ecosystem restoration. 

I decided to undertake doctoral research to develop the mechanistic understanding needed to identify more effective and defensible approaches to ecological practice, grounded in ecological theory. While I am motivated by academic research, application is central to my goals: I am particularly interested in research that can inform how ecosystems are assessed, managed, restored, and created in practice. 

CENTA’s cohort-based structure appealed to me as it provides opportunities to engage with a diverse network of doctoral researchers, broadening perspectives, approaches, and potential for interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Studying within CENTA will provide broad training opportunities and access to a strong interdisciplinary research network, helping me develop a robust and transferable skill set. 

My future plans are to pursue a research-focused career in ecology, with an emphasis on plant communities and field-based research that has applied relevance across policy and practice. 

Ultimately, whatever role I take, I am motivated by an interest in how ecological research and practice might contribute to healing the metabolic rift between people and nature.