PhD Studentship: Community Land in Europe – Governance, Social Innovation, and Sustainable Rural Development University of the Highlands and Islands in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship forms a core part of the Community Land in Europe project, supported by a Leverhulme Trust Research Leadership Award. The project aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of community land ownership across Europe and its impact on sustainable rural development. The research will be based at the Centre for Mountain Studies (CMS), University of the Highlands and Islands, Perth campus—a leading centre in land reform and community landownership research.

The project investigates how communities acquire and govern land assets for local benefit, drawing on theories such as Elinor Ostrom’s Common Pool Resources (CPR) and Social Innovation (SI). The research will explore the effectiveness of community-based governance, participatory approaches, and social innovation in promoting sustainable development. The successful candidate will conduct three case studies in different European countries, using qualitative methods and Q methodology to capture local perspectives and cross-border differences.

The CMS offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment with opportunities for collaboration, teaching, and engagement in live research projects. The University of the Highlands and Islands is recognized for research excellence and postgraduate satisfaction, providing a supportive network for PhD students.

Funding: The studentship covers home fees and a stipend at standard UKRI rates (£21,805 from October 2026) for 3.5 years. Funding is open to students worldwide; non-UK students are responsible for the difference between home and international fees. Additional funding is available for training, fieldwork, translation, and dissemination.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold a Masters or Honours degree in a relevant field or have equivalent research experience. Essential criteria include strong qualitative research skills, experience with community-based research, excellent communication and teamwork abilities, commitment to participatory and interdisciplinary research, and willingness to conduct fieldwork abroad. A full driving licence is beneficial but not required. The successful candidate is expected to spend at least three days per week on campus.

Application: Submit a CV and cover letter (detailing motivation and relevant experience) to Dr Bobby Macaulay at [email protected] by 23:55 on Sunday, 17 May 2026. Interviews will be held on 1st/2nd June 2026 at UHI Perth, with online options available. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Bobby Macaulay at the same email address.