PhD Scholarship in Social Networks for Disaster Preparedness and Climate Resilience (Qualitative Focus)

This fully-funded PhD scholarship at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) offers an exciting opportunity to join a pioneering research initiative focused on how personal networks influence disaster preparedness and climate resilience. The project is a collaboration between QUT's Networks, Society and Nature Lab (Dr Angela Guerrero), the Social Dynamics and Environmental Change Lab at the University of Sydney (Associate Professor Michele Barnes), and Dr Pavel Krivitsky (University of New South Wales), bringing together leading experts in social network theory, qualitative modelling, and resilience science. The scholarship provides a generous stipend of $40,000 per annum (tax-exempt, indexed annually) for up to 3.5 years, with a possible extension of six months. Tuition fees are fully covered for up to four years of full-time doctoral study. The successful candidate will work within an interdisciplinary team, directly engaging with communities, policymakers, and practitioners to co-design toolkits and guidelines that translate research into actionable strategies for resilience building. The PhD project will lead the qualitative component of a mixed-methods research program, applying innovative qualitative social network analysis and mental modelling techniques grounded in social and resilience theory. The candidate will conduct fieldwork in three case study communities, exploring lived experiences of disaster preparedness and investigating how cultural and social diversity shape preparedness strategies and network dynamics. Key social processes such as social capital, social influence, and collaboration will be examined to understand how they are mediated by social networks and how these dynamics impact disaster preparedness and response. Eligibility requirements include meeting QUT's Doctor of Philosophy entry criteria (including English language requirements), enrolling as a full-time internal student, and commencing by 1 August 2026. Applicants should have a strong academic background in relevant social science fields (human geography, sociology, environmental social science, development studies, sustainability science, or related areas), expertise in qualitative research methods, and the ability to ground research in relevant theory. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams, are essential. Experience with network constructs, network data, mental models, and qualitative fieldwork (especially interviews) is highly desirable. To apply, email Dr Angela Guerrero with your CV, academic transcripts, a cover letter (maximum two pages) describing your interest in the project and relevant skills, and a writing example (such as a thesis chapter or journal article) demonstrating your analytical and theoretical capabilities. If supported, you will submit an expression of interest (EOI) following QUT's research degree application advice, nominating Dr Angela Guerrero as your principal supervisor and including the scholarship web page link in the Financial Details section. Only applicants who are successful in the project selection process will be invited to proceed with the formal university PhD application. This position offers the chance to contribute to the first national-scale analysis of personal network attributes and mechanisms that enhance disaster preparedness and response within Australia. The findings will inform targeted efforts to strengthen community resilience and reduce vulnerability, delivering practical guidance for governments and practitioners. The interdisciplinary nature of the project ensures a rich academic environment and opportunities for collaboration across institutions and research fields.