Dr Alison Parker
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Award type: MSc by Research
Start date: November 2017
Duration of award: 1 years
Eligibility: UK/EU/Global
Supervisors
Alison Parker, Lecturer in International Water and Sanitation
Maarten Van De Kamp, Lecturer in Entrepreneurship
Cranfield University are developing the Nano Membrane Toilet as a household toilet which will provide safe sanitation without any need for any external water supplies, sewerage or electricity. To facilitate the implementation of this toilet in the areas of most need, that is amongst poor communities in Sub Saharan African cities a robust business model needs to be developed.
This studentship will support that development through…
• A review of other sanitation business models
• Mapping of customers and their economics
• Developing an understanding of the different functions of actors in the required sanitation chain.
• Developing an understanding of possible supply chains.
The work will primary be desk-based at Cranfield University, embedded within the technical team developing the Nano Membrane Toilet, but fieldwork in Sub Saharan Africa may be possible where it supports the activities listed above. The student can draw on expertise of academics within Cranfield Water Science Institute and the Bettany Centre for Entrepreneurship.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or upper-second class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in business, development studies or a related discipline. Practical experience in the sanitation sector or in developing businesses to serve bottom of the pyramid consumers would be welcomed. A passion for increasing the number of people served with improved sanitation is essential.
Doctoral Training Centre
This higher research degree is associated with the university’s Doctoral Training Centre (DTC). The DTC provides a focal point for engagement and academic discussion for all research students involved in the Water research theme at Cranfield. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge relating to the sector, which characterises our research portfolio.
A tailored programme of seminars and events alongside the generic core skills training programme, provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities with Cranfield’s wider research community.
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for this project please contact Alison Parker ([Email Address Removed]) to discuss your suitability for the post. Candidates should then complete the online application form.
When applying or enquiring about this research position please quote the research title.
For further information contact us today:
Admissions
T: +44 (0)1234 758082
E: [Email Address Removed]
Funding Notes
The studentship is funded under Cranfield University’s grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Funding covering tuition fees and a stipend (£18,000 per annum) is available for applicants from anywhere in the world.