PhD in Behavioural Science and Rural Development at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham in

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is advertising a full-time PhD position in Behavioural Science and Rural Development, focused on the question: How can behavioural science bridge the gap between policy and practice in rural India?

The project is presented as an applied, field-oriented doctoral opportunity where the selected candidate will help design, pilot, and evaluate real-world interventions with direct relevance to rural communities and development policy. The thematic areas highlighted include safe drinking water access, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental stewardship. The post also emphasizes work across diverse rural development themes, including water safety, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.

The opportunity is associated with Associate Professor Victoria Ustenko and the School of Social & Behavioural Sciences at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. The post notes collaboration with researchers, development practitioners, and policy stakeholders, and mentions an emerging partnership with TU Delft (Netherlands). This suggests a strong interdisciplinary and policy-relevant research environment.

Eligibility highlights: the preferred background is a master’s degree in psychology, behavioural science, economics, public health, development studies, or a related field, along with strong quantitative research skills. The project is described as hands-on and impact-driven, so applicants with an interest in mixed-methods, field research, and evidence-based interventions may be a strong fit.

Funding/application notes: the post does not specify stipend or tuition coverage. The admissions portal states that applications must be submitted through Amrita’s official PhD admissions system and that the application fee is non-refundable. International candidates are directed to a separate international admissions portal.

Deadline: 14 July 2026.

How to apply: use the official Amrita PhD admissions portal, register, complete personal and academic details, upload documents, and pay the application fee. The post also provides a contact email for the School of Social & Behavioural Sciences.