Investigating digital approaches to creating meaningful experiences of place

This PhD opportunity will critically examine the ways in which people engage and experience place and how technology can be used to alter and create new spaces resulting in ‘Blended Experiences’. This research area aligns with areas of digital empathy, digital storytelling, and phenomenology. Research in this field can contribute to connections and identities within communities and candidates with a proposal that aligns with these interests are invited to apply. I am keen to hear from candidates that are interested in creative uses of technology to investigate and create new types of spaces and new practices.   

Example areas of investigation may include: 

• Creative Placemaking for marginalised groups 
• Critical and community heritage 
• Digital approaches to engaging with nature  
• Digital approaches to religion, faith and spiritualism 

Academic qualifications

A first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, or equivalent achievements ideally in Digital Media, Human Computer Interaction or User Experience Design.

English language requirement

If your first language is not English, comply with the University requirements for research degree programmes in terms of English language.

Application process

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Tanis Grandison ([Email Address Removed]) to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application. 

Contact details

Should you need more information, please email [Email Address Removed].

The application must include: 

Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about

• Background and motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
• Research questions or
• Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
• List of references

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
• Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
• Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.

Applications can be submitted here.

Download a copy of the project details here.