PhD Studentship Opportunity in the Influence of urban natural capital on public attitudes and behaviour towards climate change action

Wates is one of the largest privately-owned construction, development and property services companies in the UK. They are committed to the long-term future of the built environment and their award-winning corporate social responsibility and sustainability programmes underpin their vision to become the most trusted partner in the built environment.

This PhD project will be supported and guided jointly by the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey and Wates. The academic and applied research focusses on the analysis of new opportunities to enhance urban biodiversity through horticulture and garden and green space management, and how this can impact on public attitudes and behaviour towards climate change and natural capital values.

The research aims to evaluate the best ways to encourage biodiversity in urban environments and to identify the most effective pathways for these to be implemented in practice. The research aims to evaluate the best ways to encourage biodiversity in urban environments and to identify the most effective pathways for these to be implemented in practice.

The anticipated outcomes of the research are expected to be relevant to: Social cohesion, societal benefit, mental health and well-being, economic benefit (employment, skills, growth), sustainable development policy.

This is a 3 year project, commencing on the 1st October 2019.

Entry requirements:
• Proficiency in spoken and written English
• First or upper-second Degree in Biological Sciences (ecology, plant sciences, horticulture, conservation biology), Geography, Urban planning & design or similar disciplines (incl. Sociology, Environmental Psychology) or a lower second plus a good Masters degree (distinction normally required).
• Keen interest in applying knowledge to research on biodiversity enhancement and climate change
• Excellent analytical, data management and communication (written & verbal) skills
• Ability to work effectively in teams and independently
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Experience in conducting research within an applied context and/or working with industry will be an advantage

IELTS Academic: 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual component.

How to apply:
To apply for this project, please contact Mrs Deidre Richardson [Email Address Removed] for an information pack that will include:
• A Project Brief;
• Information about the Centre for Environment and Sustainability;
• Details of the Practitioner Doctorate in Sustainability programme.

Applications should be sent through this link: https://sits.surrey.ac.uk/live/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?. Degree certificates and transcripts required; up to date cv; 2 reference contact details; cover letter including why this project is of interest and how your experience and interests make you a suitable candidate based on the specification provided (essential).

Shortlisting to commence and invitation to interview to be sent out Wednesday 28th August. Interviews to take place Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th September 2019.