I graduated from the University of Stirling with a degree in Mathematics and its Applications in 2009, and returned in October of the same year to begin my Ph.D. in Mathematics and Aquaculture under the supervision of Dr. Rachel Norman. My work is funded by the Institute of Computing Science and Mathematics, the Institute of Aquaculture, and Cefas.

My research involves using mathematical models to determine how to reduce the impact of the macroparasite Argulus foliaceus in UK stillwater trout fisheries. Specifically, I'm looking at how the parasite population responds to different stocking levels and methods, and how the impact of the parasite can be reduced by combining the existing treatments with an optimal stocking procedure.

In my first year I produced a literature review which outlined the problems caused by Argulus spp. in the UK, the current methods of control, and a summary of the parameters required to produce an accurate model of Argulus spp. systems. I have now written and analysed several models featuring different stocking methods used in fisheries across the UK, and incorporated seasonality and chemical treatment with emamectin benzoate. I am currently writing up my results, and investigating the impact of reservoir hosts and egg-laying boards on the system.

"Stocking methods and parasite-induced reductions in capture: modelling Argulus foliaceus in trout fisheries", N. J. McPherson, R. A. Norman, A. S. Hoyle, J. E. Bron and N. G. H. Taylor, Journal of Theoretical Biology (Accepted 2012)

During my undergraduate degree, I was awarded a prize for best final year project. More recently, I won the prize for best poster at the Institute of Aquaculture's Postgraduate Research Conference.

2012
24th October	Institute of Aquaculture Poster Presentation
2011
28th May	ECMTB Presentation
11th May	SGRS Presentation
4th May	PG Tips Presentation
9th March	Advanced Project Management Seminar
1st March	SBES Presentation
16th February	Managing Tutorials and Seminars
9th February	Project Risk Management
4th February	CS&M PhD Day
27th January	Myers Brigg Type Indicator
19th January	Project Management in the Real World
2010
23rd November	Vocal Skills Seminar
13th October	ICMS Generic Skills Event
28th June	Institute of Aquaculture Research Student Day
17-18th May	Cefas Research Student Day
3rd February	Computing Science and Maths Research Student Day
2009
7-8th October	SMSTC Symposium

I have taught Data Skills tutorials and workshops since February 2010; I was also involved in the Maths and Science days for high school students in summer 2010. I taught MAT911 tutorials in autumn 2011, and gave 2 MAT912 lectures in spring 2012.

I enjoy climbing, cycling, running and walking; I play badminton (badly) most weeks and do yoga and pilates when I get the chance. I also like cooking, baking and reading.

Email Phone Address

njm@cs.stir.ac.uk (01786) 467422 Room 4B92, Cottrell Building, Institute of Computing Science and Mathematics, University of Stirling Stirling FK9 4LA