Fully-funded PhD - Reconnecting with energy: using innovative research methods to overcome energy invisibility
The Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research (CRESR, Sheffield Hallam University), in partnership with the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the University of Lund, is pleased to offer this fully funded ESRC PhD studentship as part of the ESRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership.
The research will focus on our changing relationship with heat as one of the most prominent and carbon intensive energy uses in Northern Europe. Heat also exemplifies our changing relationship with energy and its increasing invisibility in our lives- something driven, in particular, by the transition from coal fires to central heating over the last fifty years. The project will take a mixed methods approach, combining an initial survey with more substantive in-depth qualitative research to understand the nature of our changing relationship with energy and explore the potential for research participation to help re-engage the public with the environmental and ethical debates around energy generation and foster environmental citizenship. The research will be conducted across two case study locations (one in the UK and one in Sweden).
The partnership with the IEA (through their Task 24 programme) provides unparalleled opportunities for the appointed student to contribute to the work of the global energy authority and secure international policy impact. In practice, the student will have access to a mentor from Task 24, an annual international placement with the Task 24 leadership team as well as assistance accessing key stakeholders for the research, integration into the Task 24 community and assistance communicating and disseminating findings internationally. Lund University will facilitate and support the research undertaken in Sweden.
The successful applicant will have a keen interest in energy policy issues and should be capable of conducting mixed methods studies as well as having an interest in the application of innovative qualitative methodologies. These interests might have been developed, for example, through recent undergraduate or Master's study, or through a related policy or practice role.
The start date for the studentship is 1 October 2019 and it can be undertaken on a part-time or full-time basis. The award includes tuition fees and a stipend at RCUK National Minimum Doctoral Stipend rates (£14,777 in 2018/19 full-time; pro-rata for part-time students).
How to apply
Potential applicants are encouraged to contact a member of the proposed supervisory team for an informal discussion prior to completing their application: Dr Aimee Ambrose (a.ambrose@shu.ac.uk) or Dr Will Eadson (w.eadson@shu.ac.uk).