Leeds Beckett University’s Carnegie School of Sport, in partnership with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on responsible outdoor recreation and risk perception on the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) training estate. The successful candidate will join the Responsible Outdoor Recreation Research Group (RORRG) and contribute to applied research that informs the management of the Defence estate, supporting both outdoor recreation and the health and well-being of military personnel and civilians. The project, supervised by Professor Kate Dashper and Dr Jason King, will explore how recreational users perceive risk on MOD land, which includes sites of significant environmental and conservation value and is used for both military training and public recreation. The research will involve fieldwork at Catterick Garrison (North Yorkshire) and Longmoor Camp (Hampshire), examining how civilians, military personnel, and their families understand and respond to risks associated with recreational activities in these areas. The study aims to balance the needs of military training, public access, and environmental conservation, addressing real-world challenges such as incursions and safety management. Applicants should have a 2:1 or higher in a relevant undergraduate degree and demonstrate a strong interest in outdoor recreation, green space management, or leisure studies. Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided. Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills are required. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only, and selection will be based on academic excellence, the quality of the research proposal, and fit with the project’s aims. The studentship covers home (UK) tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per year, along with a laptop. The position is full-time for three years, starting 1 April 2026. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposals with Professor Kate Dashper or Dr Jason King before applying. The application deadline is 16 January 2026, with interviews scheduled for 9–10 February 2026. To apply, candidates must submit a research proposal (max 2000 words), a statement of purpose (max 1000 words), and a CV via the Leeds Beckett University application portal. The research proposal should outline the topic, research questions, methodology, and potential impact. For more information, visit the provided links or contact the supervisors directly.