Staff within the Environment and Development Research Group of the Sustainability Research Institute are keen to hear from prospective students interested in conducting interdisciplinary research across the natural and social science. There will be a focus on the relationship between the environment and human development.
<p>The world faces serious and rapidly evolving environmental challenges. Climate change, deforestation, land degradation, food insecurity, environmental pollution, water scarcity and biodiversity loss are all high on political agendas.</p> <p>Simultaneously achieving development that does not exacerbate environmental degradation – and that is both economically fair and socio-politically just – is a major challenge, from local levels to global ones. </p> <p>PhD research within this field has the potential to develop deeper understanding of the simultaneous challenges we face, and critically explore options to tackle them. You will work alongside academics at the forefront of their subject as you develop your own research.</p> <p>Staff and students in the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/sustainability-research-institute/doc/environment-development-1">Environment and Development Research Group</a> have expertise across the natural and social sciences. They work on issues relating to conservation, adaptation, governance, sustainable land management and development, with a particular focus on drylands, forests and agricultural systems in the Global South.</p> <p>We specialise in participatory, action-oriented research that brings together government, business, NGOs and local communities. This enhances the relevance, quality and practical influence of our research.</p> <p>We encourage PhD proposals that align with the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/sustainability-research-institute/doc/environment-development-1">research undertaken by staff in the Environment and Development Research Group</a>.</p> <p>Our current research cuts across several key themes: </p> <ul> <li>biodiversity and society </li> <li>environmental degradation and development</li> <li>rural livelihoods, human wellbeing and the environment</li> <li>climate-compatible development, climate-resilient development pathways, climate change adaptation and mitigation</li> <li>sustainable and resilient agriculture and food systems</li> <li>natural resource governance and politics</li> </ul> <p>We encourage students to develop novel interdisciplinary approaches as well as cross-institutional partnerships, to enable direct research impact from their work. </p> <p>Postgraduate researchers are supervised by at least two academic members of staff. Co-supervision can be sought from within the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/sustainability-research-institute">Sustainability Research Institute</a>, other research institutes (eg the Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Studies) or centres (eg the Priestley International Centre for Climate) hosted within the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see-research-innovation">School of Earth and Environment</a>. Cross-faculty/school co-supervision is also possible. Common supervisory alliances include the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/geography">School of Geography</a> and the <a href="https://essl.leeds.ac.uk/politics">School of Politics and International Studies</a>. </p> <h5>Why do your PhD at Leeds?</h5> <p><strong>Study in an active research environment </strong><br /> Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. <br /> <strong>A strong network of support </strong><br /> The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. <br /> <strong>Close industry links </strong><br /> Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. <br /> <strong>Professional skills development </strong><br /> We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. <br /> <strong>Personal and wellbeing services </strong><br /> Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. <br /> <strong>Join our global community </strong><br /> We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.</p> <h3>Useful links and further reading:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see-research-degrees">Research degrees within the School of Earth and Environment</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/sustainability-research-institute/doc/environment-development-1">Environment and Development group</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see-research-innovation">School of Earth and Environment, Research and Innovation</a></li> </ul> <h3>Leeds Doctoral College</h3> <p>Our <a aria-label="Link Doctoral College" href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" title="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college">Doctoral College</a> supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey. It brings together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, development and overall experience.</p>
<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>.</p>
<p>For queries relating to your research proposal or subject area, please contact <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see/staff/1517/dr-susannah-m-sallu">Dr Susannah Sallu</a>.</p> <p>For general enquiries and details regarding the application process, please contact the Graduate School Office:<br /> e: <a href="mailto:env-pgr@leeds.ac.uk">env-pgr@leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 343 1314.</p>
<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked project opportunities</h2>
<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked funding opportunities</h2>