Future Of Flight: Behaviour, Risk and Regulation in the Public Sector

The Centre for National Training and Research Excellence in Understanding Behaviour (Centre-UB) at the University of Birmingham is offering a fully funded Doctoral Studentship in partnership with the Department for Transport, commencing October 2026. This PhD project focuses on the Future Flight sector, including advanced civilian-use drones and electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs), which are poised for large-scale deployment in the UK. These technologies promise sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional aviation and ground transport, with applications ranging from emergency services to package delivery and regional passenger transport. The project addresses critical governance challenges associated with Future Flight technologies. Key research themes include limited awareness among decision-makers, the need for deeper engagement with organisational cultures across public, private, and third-sector bodies, and the importance of early public and community involvement in decision-making. The successful candidate will investigate behavioural barriers and opportunities influencing the adoption of Future Flight technologies in public sector organisations, explore organisational perceptions of risk, safety, privacy, and operations, and examine how behavioural insights can inform effective regulation and community engagement. Methodologically, the PhD will employ a multi-phase mixed-methods approach, including semi-structured interviews, surveys, behavioural experiments, and deliberative public engagement panels. The student will join a supportive, multidisciplinary research team with a strong record of academic excellence and policy impact. The project is ideal for candidates passionate about multi-disciplinary research that bridges social sciences, policy, and technology. Eligibility requirements include a 1st class or 2:1 degree in a relevant social sciences discipline (such as sociology, geography, or economics). An MSc degree is desirable but not essential, and equivalent professional experience will be considered. Experience with quantitative and qualitative research methods is preferred, but training will be provided. The studentship covers tuition fees, a maintenance stipend, research training support, and research activity grants. Up to 30% of the cohort may be international students, in line with UKRI funding stipulations. To apply, candidates should follow the instructions provided on the Centre-UB website. The application deadline is February 17, 2026, with interviews expected in mid-March 2026. For informal enquiries, prospective applicants may contact Professor Fern Elsdon-Baker or Dr. Rebecca McDonald via email. Further details about the studentship and application process are available on the Centre-UB website.