The UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose (IIPP) is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship supervised by Professor Mariana Mazzucato, a leading scholar in the economics of innovation and public value. The project focuses on developing new economic theories to support mission-oriented green industrial strategies, with a particular emphasis on the dynamics between public finance and private investment, especially in the Global South. The research will challenge traditional economic paradigms, aiming to design and implement public financing mechanisms that catalyse private investment for sustainable and inclusive growth.

The successful candidate will engage in both micro- and macro-economic analysis, examining how public policies can crowd in private investment and address issues such as the global investment glut and financialisation of business. The studentship provides access to rich case studies from IIPP’s international collaborations and offers a highly interdisciplinary, policy-engaged academic environment. Applicants should have a strong background in economics, quantitative research methods, and a keen interest in sustainable finance and industrial policy.

The position is open to UK and international candidates, with full tuition fees and a generous stipend provided. The application process involves submitting a CV and completing an application form, followed by an interview for shortlisted candidates. The deadline for applications is December 14, 2025, and the programme starts in May or October 2026. UCL encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities.