Applications are invited for a fully-funded three and a half year PhD to commence in October 2023.
The PhD will be jointly supervised by Professor Steve Fletcher from the University of Portsmouth and Professor Rosalind Malcolm from the University of Surrey.
Successful applicants will receive a bursary to cover tuition fees for three and a half years and a stipend in line with the UKRI rate (£18,622 for 2023/24). Bursary recipients will also receive a stipend to support project costs/consumables.
The work on this project could involve:
● Attending intergovernmental negotiation meetings to develop the global plastics treaty.
● Generating research outcomes that directly feed into actions to reduce plastic pollution.
● Working with global partners in the public, private and civil society sectors.
Project description
Plastic pollution is a growing issue that significantly impacts people, the environment, and the economy. In March 2022, the UN Environment Assembly passed a resolution to initiate a process to negotiate a new legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. The aim is to finalize the text of the treaty by the end of 2024. The plastic pollution treaty is an unprecedented global attempt to tackle this issue and has been described as the most important environmental agreement since the Paris Climate Agreement. However, developing the treaty and finalizing its content will be a highly contested process. With many different perspectives and vested interests involved in the negotiation process, the final content of the treaty remains uncertain. To examine these challenges, we have formulated a PhD focused on the process and outcomes of the plastic pollution treaty negotiation process. The student will analyze the substantial documentary trail related to the treaty process, investigate the role of negotiating groups, countries, and non-state actors, and explore how the structure and form of the negotiation process affect the ultimate content of the treaty. This research will be timely, encompassing the final year of negotiations, the formal adoption of the treaty, and the early stage of regional and national implementation into law and policy. This PhD research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities of international treaty negotiations and the potential impact of the plastic pollution treaty on global efforts to address this critical environmental issue.
General admissions criteria
You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
Specific candidate requirements
Ideally, candidates will be familiar with the plastics policy landscape, have an appreciation of the global plastics treaty process, and have an existing network on relevant contacts. Some previous experience of research into plastics policy would be welcome.
How to Apply
We’d encourage you to contact Professor Steve Fletcher ([Email Address Removed]) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code.
When you are ready to apply, you can use our online application form. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV. Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.
If you want to be considered for this funded PhD opportunity you must quote project code SEGG8400823 when applying.
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