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- Tasks: Research urban sustainability strategies and their impact on different social groups.
- Company: University of Cambridge, a leading institution in geography and sustainability.
- Benefits: Fully-funded PhD studentship with access to expert supervision and resources.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in climate urbanism while studying at a prestigious university.
- Qualifications: Passion for sustainability and research experience in qualitative methods.
- Other info: Flexible research design with opportunities for fieldwork in South Africa.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Overview
A fully-funded 3.5 year ESRC PhD studentship on the topic “Climate urbanism: sustainability for the affluent?”. The studentship is part of the CAM-DTP (University of Cambridge/Anglia Ruskin University) and will sit primarily within the Department of Geography at the University of Cambridge, with a secondary affiliation to the Global Sustainability Institute at ARU (Cambridge campus) supported by co-supervision from Prof Rosie Robison.
Research focus
This studentship will explore how current urban sustainability strategies may work to protect privileged groups and promote affluent lifestyles at the expense of marginalised groups. The research will interrogate case studies in the UK and South Africa, with local institutional support provided during fieldwork in South Africa. There is flexibility in the focus and design of the research. For example, applicants can choose particular sustainability sectors and interventions they are interested in as case studies, e.g. transport, energy, water.
- Transport (15-minute cities, cycling, public transport)
- Energy (renewable sources, e.g. solar panels)
- Water (retrofitting houses around greywater reuse, boreholes, storage tanks)
The research will use predominantly qualitative methods (e.g. interviews, policy analysis, workshops, ethnography); however there is flexibility over the precise design.
Affiliations and supervision
Connected with the CAM-DTP and based primarily in the Department of Geography, Cambridge, with a secondary affiliation to the Global Sustainability Institute at ARU (Cambridge campus). Co-supervision from Prof Rosie Robison.
What to expect as part of the application process
Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to sign up to attend drop-in sessions. Details below and accompanying guidance on completing an application will be circulated to those who sign up: register your interest in these.
Key dates
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 2 December 2025. Online interviews are likely to take place on 16 January 2026.
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PhD Studentship: Climate Urbanism, University of Cambridge, UK employer: Regional Studies Association
Contact Detail:
Regional Studies Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Climate Urbanism, University of Cambridge, UK
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the people behind the research! Reach out to Prof Rosie Robison or other faculty members in the Department of Geography. A quick chat can give you insights into their work and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just wait for the application deadline! Attend those drop-in sessions. They’re a great way to ask questions, get advice, and make a memorable impression on the selection committee.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your research proposal to highlight how your interests align with the studentship’s focus. Show us how you can contribute to understanding urban sustainability and its impact on different social groups.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at Cambridge.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Climate Urbanism, University of Cambridge, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Research: Before you start writing, dive into the topic of climate urbanism. Familiarise yourself with current sustainability strategies and think about how they impact different social groups. This will help you tailor your application to show that you're genuinely interested in the research focus.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm shine through in your written application! Share why this PhD studentship excites you and how it aligns with your academic and career goals. We want to see your passion for sustainability and urban studies!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets your ideas across effectively. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Regional Studies Association
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your proposed research topic. Understand the nuances of climate urbanism and how it relates to sustainability for affluent groups. Be ready to discuss your case studies and why they matter, especially in the context of the UK and South Africa.
✨Engage with Your Supervisors
Familiarise yourself with Prof Rosie Robison's work and the broader research themes within the Department of Geography. Show genuine interest in their research and be prepared to discuss how your interests align with theirs. This will demonstrate that you’re not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the studentship, the research environment, and potential collaborations. This shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the programme, which can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Practice Qualitative Methods
Since the research will predominantly use qualitative methods, brush up on your skills in interviews, policy analysis, and ethnography. Be ready to discuss how you would approach these methods in your research and any relevant experiences you have had in the past.