At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct interdisciplinary research on legal and economic strategies for climate change adaptation.
- Company: University of Essex, part of the Sustainable Transitions Doctoral Training Programme.
- Benefits: Fully funded master’s and PhD, £10,000 research allowance, and networking opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive community with access to training and resources.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change solutions while developing your academic career.
- Qualifications: Degree in law; no prior training in development studies or economics required.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
This is an opportunity for a person from an underrepresented group to undertake a fully funded master’s degree followed by a fully funded interdisciplinary PhD research degree under the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’ at the University of Essex. Only UK domiciled applicants who meet the following criteria may apply:
- Not already have a master’s degree
- Be from a low-income household background as evidenced by, for example, being in receipt of a full maintenance loan or Special Support loan during their undergraduate studies.
- Be one of the following categories of ethnicity: Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, Mixed – White and Black Caribbean, Mixed – White and Black African, Other mixed background (including Black African, Black Caribbean and Black Other)
The successful applicant would study an appropriate master’s degree, such as LLM Law. The subsequent PhD project would focus on the relationship between legal and economic interventions concerning climate change adaptation. Owing to the recognition that many countries and communities are needing to adapt rapidly to climate related events such as storms, flooding, sea-level rise, desertification, drought and crop failure there is now much greater pressure for legal and policy interventions. Many countries have framework laws that provide for adaptation but there are significant gaps in areas relating to financing, investment and infrastructure development. This means that there is an urgent need for more research relating to the law and policy that would contribute to effective climate change mitigation in that space. This project would undertake analysis in this field to contribute to the provision of practical and effective solutions.
Interdisciplinary Focus and Methods
The interdisciplinarity of this project lies at researching the interface between the development of law that is required to respond adequately to climate change adaptation and the economic requirement to invest in appropriate responses. This means that the project will involve legal analysis combined with analysis of a variety of different types of adaptation mechanisms such as investment, financial and governance strategies that can be employed, but which require legal frameworks to function effectively.
Training and Support
You will receive support through the Sustainable Transitions training program, which offers interdisciplinary research methods, secondary discipline training, and ongoing development. Doctoral scholars also have access to £2,500 through Proficio for training courses and £10,000 for research and additional training. You may audit relevant courses and will be supported by both the Sustainable Transitions management and your supervisory team. Additionally, all scholars join the University of Essex’s ‘Centre for Environment and Society,’ providing events and networking opportunities.
Person Specification
This opportunity would suit a candidate with a degree/ background in law and the successful candidate will be expected to develop their knowledge of international environmental law. It is not necessary for the candidate to have prior training in development studies, government, business or economics as any relevant training will be provided on the programme.
Research Proposal
The project area is broadly defined, leaving scope for the applicant to develop their own specific research proposal as part of the application. The successful candidate will further develop their proposal in close consultation with the supervisory team.
Funding Details
Home tuition fee waiver. A research allowance of £10,000 (in total) to be spent on authorised research costs, for example supplies and equipment, fieldwork etc. Closing Date 11:59 pm BST on Monday 14th September 2026. £21,805 living costs stipend at the UK Research and Innovation recommended level per year. The stipend for 2026-27 is £21,805.
PhD Studentship: The Relationship between Legal and Economic Interventions for Effective Climat[...] in Colchester employer: University of Essex
The University of Essex offers a vibrant and supportive work environment for Nursing Education Lecturers, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee development, staff have access to numerous growth opportunities, including professional training and research initiatives. Located in the picturesque town of Colchester, employees enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to beautiful surroundings and a thriving academic community.
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We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: The Relationship between Legal and Economic Interventions for Effective Climat[...] in Colchester
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab Door
Look for internship programmes specifically set up for life sciences or biotechnology students. Many companies, including University of Essex, offer structured pathways for interns, so check their careers page or your university's career services to snag those early opportunities.
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How to prepare for a job interview at University of Essex
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As we're diving into the biotechnology world, it's essential to refresh your knowledge on commonly used lab techniques. Be prepared to discuss methods like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and CRISPR. They might even ask you to explain the principles behind them or how you've used them in your studies!
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