Fully Funded PhD in Adaptive Shared Mobility, Resilience, and Decision-Making at University of Southampton University of Southampton in United Kingdom

The University of Southampton is offering a fully funded PhD position in the area of adaptive shared mobility for systemic resilience, as part of the Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarships Programme for Interdisciplinary Resilience Studies. This project investigates how shared mobility systems—such as car clubs, e-bikes, and platform-based services—can support communities during disruptive events like floods, storms, or transport shutdowns. The research will combine optimisation and simulation, behavioural studies on cooperation and decision-making, and co-design with local partners to develop fair, trusted, and effective shared mobility solutions for crisis scenarios.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Agnieszka Stefaniec (lead supervisor), Dr Rich McIlroy, and Professor Konstantinos Katsikopoulos, joining a multidisciplinary environment at the University of Southampton. The project will involve modelling and simulation of shared fleet operations, behavioural experiments to understand cooperation and trust under stress, and participatory workshops with local authorities, resilience forums, and mobility operators. The research aims to generate both theoretical insights and practical outputs, such as decision rules, communication strategies, and governance guidance for policymakers and communities.

Students will receive advanced training in optimisation modelling, simulation, behavioural experimentation, GIS-based spatial analysis, ethical research design, and science communication. The programme offers opportunities for collaboration with partners including the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Resilience Forum, NHS representatives, and mobility providers. Regular interdisciplinary workshops within the Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarships Programme will further strengthen the candidate’s capacity to integrate technical, behavioural, and governance approaches to resilience research.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. Non-native English speakers require an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in all components). Applicants should demonstrate interest or experience in optimisation, simulation, behavioural science, or transport systems. Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills are desirable.

Funding: The PhD is fully funded for UK/UK-domiciled students (tuition fees, UKRI-level stipend for 48 months, and £2,500 per year Research Training Support Grant). One fully funded international studentship is available across the cohort. A 'Master’s + PhD' studentship is also available for eligible UK/UK-domiciled students (60 months of funding).

Application: Applications should be submitted through the Programme for Interdisciplinary Resilience Studies by 31 January 2026. Prospective students are advised to contact the lead supervisor to discuss suitability before applying. Application materials include a personal statement, CV, two academic references, degree transcripts or certificates, English language qualification (if applicable), and the PIRS scholarship application form. Apply for a maximum of two projects.

For more information, visit the project and programme pages or contact the supervisors or programme administrators.