PhD Studentship: Perceptions of Water Reuse for Non-Potable Water Supply in Commercial Sectors Cranfield University in United Kingdom

[Fully funded PhD studentship with an enhanced stipend of £25,726 per annum (tax free) and tuition fees covered for four years. Extra training and placement (overseas/industry) costs will be covered, subject to supervisor approval. Open to Home and Overseas students.]

This fully funded PhD studentship at Cranfield University, sponsored by Anglian Water and EPSRC, offers an enhanced stipend of £25,726 per annum (tax free) and covers tuition fees for four years. The project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe) and addresses a critical challenge in the water sector: unlocking alternative water supplies to support economic activity and growth, while maintaining the resilience of public water services in water-stressed regions.

The research will focus on how commercial water users perceive the risks and benefits of water reuse systems for non-potable applications, such as cooling and industrial processes. It will also assess emerging governance opportunities and hurdles associated with implementing these systems. England faces significant challenges in long-term water security, with predictions of substantial shortfalls in supply if current practices remain unchanged. These issues are already impacting commercial and industrial sectors, as some water companies have had to restrict non-domestic water supplies due to resource limitations.

The successful candidate will have flexibility in designing their research approach, drawing on a wide range of social science methods. Key commercial sectors include data centres, high-tech industries, and food and beverage production. The project is a collaboration between Cranfield University, Anglian Water, and EPSRC, providing opportunities for industry placements and additional training, subject to supervisor approval.

Applicants should hold a first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant discipline. A relevant MSc degree is desirable but not essential. Experience in the water sector is welcomed. The studentship is open to both Home and Overseas students, with all fees and extra training costs covered.

The application deadline is 25 March 2026. Interested candidates should complete the online application form and may contact Dr Heather Smith for further information. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in environmental science, water infrastructure, governance, and the commercial impacts of water reuse.