A Place for Everyone? Housing, policy, and community in rural Scotland (VC24074)

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is seeking to attract a PhD candidate of outstanding ability and commitment to join its vibrant and growing programme of internationally excellent research.

The School of Education and Social Sciences at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) invites applications for a PhD project focused on the potential and limitations of housing policy in fostering sustainable communities in rural Scotland. The research will address the overarching question: how can housing policy be used to make a place for everyone in rural areas?

Access to affordable housing is a persistent issue in rural Scotland, threatening the sustainability of its economies and communities. This project will investigate the housing crisis, exploring the impacts of budget cuts, second home ownership, and proposed local government powers over short-term lets and vacant properties. The research aims to contribute to international discussions on rural sustainability, housing governance, and balancing local housing needs with tourism. Building on UWS expertise in policy and migration, the PhD will engage with potential themes including but not excluded to: housing budget cuts; second home ownership and community development; plans to increase local government powers over short-term lets and vacant properties; landownership and housing development, interlinks between housing, rural migration and mobility.

The successful candidate will develop a typology of housing tenure and sustainability, contribute to theoretical debates and literature, generate internationally relevant insights, and deliver evidence-based policy recommendations. Employing documentary analysis, case study research, and policy analysis, the candidate will gain valuable skills in qualitative research methods. Embedded within the Sustainable Policy Research Analysis Centre (SPARC) at UWS, the project offers support from an interdisciplinary research team and a vibrant cohort of PhD researchers. We seek motivated candidates with a background in sustainability, housing policy, sociology, political science or other relevant discipline. Apply by 29^th July 2024 to join us in addressing critical housing issues and building sustainable rural communities.

Applicants must have a 2:1 or 1^st class honours degree in a relevant subject. A Masters degree, involving appropriate knowledge or skills or relevant professional/ personal experience in housing, community development, policy and related issues is also desirable. This may be based in the private, public or third sector. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate knowledge and experience of data collection, such as designing and delivering a research project for a dissertation or undertaking an evaluation.

For people interested in the potential and challenges of rural life and regional development, and exploring housing as a key element in social justice, this PhD offers an exciting opportunity for developing your career, including research, academic work, policy, advocacy, social enterprises and voluntary sector.

For more information or to discuss the project informally, please contact: Dr Julie Clark at [Email Address Removed]

Applications must be made via the UWS Online Application Link: www.uws.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/admissions-application/postgraduate-research-application-guide

Application Deadline: 29/07/2024

Start Date: 01/10/2024