Peatland hydrology following rewetting (Master)

Drained peatlands are often degraded ecosystems with weakened natural functions and ecosystem services related to water-storing capacity, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. All these functions rely on a relatively high and stable groundwater level. Over the past decade, Sweden has widely applied peatland rewetting to restore vital ecosystem functions, and the pace of rewetting is expected to increase further in response to the new EU Restoration Law. Yet, few studies have assessed how stable peat groundwater levels are after rewetting, how stable they will remain under different climate scenarios, and how the water storage and discharge patterns change over time across rewetted peatlands. 

In this Master’s thesis project, you will address these questions by using a recently developed peatland model (Pecosim; Nijp et al., 2026). The project will be based on available data from several Swedish peatland sites. Project outcomes will support decision-making on peatland restoration.

Facts

• Main subject area: Environmental science
• Level and length: advanced level (Master, 30 hp / 20 weeks, or 60 hp / 40 weeks)
• Language: English (or Swedish)
• Requirements: basic knowledge in R
• Time period: Spring semester 2027

References

Nijp, J.J., Huseby Karlsen, R., Nilsson, M.B., Bishop, K., 2026. Ecohydrological feedbacks increase water storage, streamflow and resilience of natural peatlands. J. Hydrol. 664, 134282. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhydrol.2025.134282