Rob Schindler

Academic profile

Dr Rob Schindler

Researcher Paludiculture evaluation for phosphorus reduction in Somerset levels
School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences (Faculty of Science and Engineering)

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The Global Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. Rob's work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

Goal 04: SDG 4 - Quality EducationGoal 06: SDG 6 - Clean Water and SanitationGoal 07: SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean EnergyGoal 09: SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and InfrastructureGoal 11: SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and CommunitiesGoal 14: SDG 14 - Life Below WaterGoal 15: SDG 15 - Life on Land

About Rob

I have a broad background in the geomorphology and hydrodynamics and have studied or worked in the academic sector for over 16 years. My principal interest is geomorphology, and I specialise in fluvial systems and sediment transport. I have authored multiple peer-reviewed articles, most recently on the transport dynamics of complex bio-mediated sediments, and regularly present at international conferences. My research work has spanned a range of experimental facilities and field environments and I have expertise in an array of specialist instruments for measuring flow & sediment properties. I have co-authored successful research grants including RCUK standard grants, the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) for innovative collaboration with industry, and for the development of novel instrumentation.

I have undertaken field-based research campaigns in the UK, Canada, Iceland and the High Arctic in rivers, lakes, estuaries, the littoral zone and glaciers. I have undertaken experiments in several of the UK’s principal hydrodynamics facilities including Plymouth’s COAST Lab, The Total Environment Simulator at Hull University, the Sorby Environmental Dynamics Laboratory at Leeds University and CEH Dorset’s Fluvarium. I specialise in physical modelling experiments and have previously undertaken scaled studies on sediment transport, flow around in-stream vegetation and the undermining of engineered structures through scour.

I have constantly sought to combine experimental rigour with innovation throughout my career and strongly believe in a multi-disciplinary approach to tackling contemporary environmental issues. Since arriving in Plymouth in 2009 I have forged links with different research groups across the University including biologists, geochemists, engineers, geologists and geographers. In addition, I have worked with the Plymouth Electron Microscope Centre to develop their ability to characterize complex sediments using microscopy.

I currently work for the Marine Institute leading a project that examines the potential for‘bio-seeding’ of sediment as an alternative to hard-engineering approaches to scour and erosion. This patent-protected technology takes a holistic approach that aims to simultaneously protect infrastructure and minimize the anthropogenic disturbance of natural habitats. The work encompasses multiple disciplines (structural engineering, hydraulics & sediment transport, the biology and ecology of benthic communities) which we are actively developing in partnership with environmental and commercial sectors. This exemplifies the real-world, problem-solving nature of my work. 

Supervised Research Degrees

Pernille Forsberg, MSc (Applied Marine Science): Temporal and sptial variations of suspended particle matter and flocculation properties in a shallow mixed-sediment estuarine environment, The Dee Estuary, UK (2013).

Teaching

My teaching roles have spanned first year undergraduate to PhD level; ranged from individual mentorship to large classes, and; have been undertaken in classroom,seminar, field and laboratory environments.

 

Specialist Technician, COAST Laboratory, Plymouth University (2014-5).

Management of research across multiple facilities,including undergraduate & post-graduate; one-on-one and group instruction on use of facilities & instrumentation; teaching methodological practice;experimental planning and optimization; analytical techniques.

MSc Supervisor: Applied Marine Science, Plymouth University (2013).

Joint-supervised Pernille Forsberg on her thesis, “Temporal and spatial variations of suspended particle matter and flocculation properties in a shallow mixed-sediment estuarine environment, The Dee Estuary, UK”. I guided her experimental design, taught key field techniques, supervised in the field,tutored her in analytical techniques and writing skills. She was awarded 67%.

MSc Tutor: Geology, Geophysics & Oceanography of Coasts, Plymouth University (2009-12).

Supervised fieldwork (boat time), taught instrumentation, IT practicals,marking.

Professional Lecturing, Plymouth University (2011).

“Estuarine Classification as Management Tool”, Short Course in Coastal Geomorphology for the Environment Agency

Teaching Demonstrator: Biosphere Institute, Leeds University (2001-5).

Taught lab and computer practicals across all undergraduate levels in Catchment Processes, Fluvial Geomorphology,Mechanics of Sediment Transport;Fieldwork supervision.

Teaching Assistant, Department of Geography, York University (Toronto) (1999-2001). 

Lecturing, fieldwork supervision,classroom and computer practicals, group work, marking, exam supervision, personal tutelage & pastoral guidance.

Contact Rob

B504 Portland Square, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA
+44 1752 584563