PhD Studentship: Biodiversity Conservation and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Regulation in England University of Essex in United Kingdom

[Fully funded studentship with £20,780 stipend for 2025-26, plus £2,500 for training courses and £10,000 for research costs and further training through the Sustainable Transitions programme.]

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Essex offers an exciting opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research on biodiversity conservation, focusing on the implementation and impact of the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulation in England. The project is part of the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’ and is designed to analyse how developers are responding to the mandatory BNG regulation, which requires a 10% increase in biodiversity value for certain developments. The research will evaluate the effectiveness of this regulation in limiting biodiversity loss and identify the challenges faced by developers in its implementation.

The project allows for a flexible research approach, enabling candidates to use either quantitative methods (e.g., large-scale analysis of developer practices) or qualitative methods (e.g., case studies of local councils or planning authorities). The interdisciplinary nature of the project bridges business practice and environmental science, synthesising concepts from both fields to address real-world sustainability challenges.

Doctoral scholars will benefit from comprehensive training in interdisciplinary research methods, as well as support from the Sustainable Transitions management team and their supervisory team. The programme includes a £20,780 stipend for 2025-26, £2,500 for training courses, and £10,000 for research costs and further training. Scholars will also join the Centre for Environment and Society, gaining access to ongoing events and networking opportunities.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a background in accounting or business management, especially those with experience in corporate social responsibility. Prior expertise in biodiversity is not required, as relevant training will be provided. Applicants should be eager to learn new methodologies beyond their primary discipline. The project area is broadly defined, allowing candidates to develop their own research proposal, which will be refined in collaboration with the supervisory team.

Applications are open until 13 April 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the University of Essex postgraduate research opportunities page.