PhD Studentship: Polycentric Governance of Community Benefit Funds for Sustainability Transitions University of Strathclyde in United Kingdom

[Fully-funded scholarship for 3 years covers all university tuition fees (at UK level) and an annual tax-free stipend. International students must cover the difference between home and international fees unless exceptionally funded.]

This fully-funded PhD studentship at the University of Strathclyde explores the polycentric governance of Community Benefit Funds (CBFs) to support local-to-regional sustainability transitions. CBFs, primarily arising from low-carbon and renewable energy projects, represent a significant and growing investment in Scotland and beyond, with over £40 million annually directed towards community development. However, these funds are often locally focused and lack regional coordination, which can limit their broader impact on sustainability and development goals.

The project aims to mobilise systems-thinking to investigate innovative governance approaches that enable CBFs to deliver both community-level benefits and support wider regional sustainability transitions. The research will draw on both quantitative and qualitative data, including case studies from Scotland and internationally, to assess current CBF models and their effectiveness in achieving just transitions and regional development. The student will be part of the UKRI-funded JUST-Systems consortium, a major multi-institute research programme dedicated to placing communities at the heart of the Net Zero transition.

Based within the Strathclyde Institute for Sustainable Communities (SISC), the successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team focused on pathways for fair and sustainable futures. The project is supervised by Professor Matthew Hannon and Dr Jennifer Roberts, who bring expertise in governance, policy, and sustainable development.

Eligibility requirements include a first or 2:1 UK Honours degree (or overseas equivalent) in a relevant social science discipline such as business and management, economics, sociology, or geography. A Masters degree or equivalent work experience is strongly preferred. Applicants should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development, justice and just transitions, community and regional development, policy, governance, and markets, as well as experience in qualitative research methods and excellent interpersonal and teamworking skills.

The studentship covers full UK tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate for three years. International students are welcome to apply but must secure funding for the difference between home and international tuition fees unless exceptionally supported. The application deadline is 19 January 2026, with the programme commencing in May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.

For more information and to apply, visit the project webpage or contact Professor Matthew Hannon at [email protected].