Renewable Energy in the UK: Connecting Pasts and Futures - MscR in Global Environmental Challenges

About the project
Renewable energy use is growing globally. As we face up to climate change and the planet-altering consequences of fossil fuels, transition to renewable sources of energy is being promoted as a key step towards a more sustainable future. But renewables have a fascinating past, that can inform their use going forward. This project proposes research on the history of renewable energies in the UK, to connect current and future policy-making with knowledge of how renewables industries have developed, learnt and adapted. Why did certain technologies succeed where others failed? How consistent has state energy policy been? Are there problems or tensions around renewable energy projects, and why might this be? Your supervisor will be an environmental historian actively researching the history of wind energy, and there will be scope to shape your project according to your particular interest (a focus on technology, policy, place or community, for example).

Why choose this opportunity?
You will have the opportunity to shape your research project in consultation with your supervisor and pursue the aspect of this topic that is most relevant to you. You will have the opportunity to bring historical research into conversation with contemporary issues, and other fields – engineering, politics, geography. An interdisciplinary perspective is welcomed.

About you
You will have skills in undertaking independent research, with preferably (but not essentially) some experience of working with archives/historical materials.

About the programme
The Cabot Institute Masters by Research is a unique opportunity to work with a leading supervisor to deliver a one-year research project that you are passionate about. The programme will bring together exceptional students from all backgrounds with a common mission – protecting the planet and securing our future. As well as learning from your supervisor, you will learn from your fellow students; coming together to share your ideas and developing your problem-solving skills as part of an interdisciplinary team over the year. As well as being hosted within the Cabot Institute you will have a direct relationship within the relevant School for your research area, allowing you to fully take advantage of a wide-ranging research community.
Alongside your research project, you will benefit from a unique personal development and transferable skills training schedule. These unaccredited, optional events will give you the opportunity to come together with your peers to improve your research skills and develop an innovative approach to the global challenges we face today. You will also be encouraged to propose your own interests for a seminar series, giving you a unique platform to mould your studies and get involved directly with the programme. The training schedule will focus on:
• Interdisciplinarity & Collaboration
• Innovation & Enterprise
• Making your research a success
• Research communications
• Ignite your interests (your chance to propose ideas for a seminar series)
You will also gain access to the Cabot Institute’s network of experts across academia, government, business and industry via networking events. These opportunities will not only support your research, but give you the edge in your future career, whatever that may be.