PhD Studentship: The Role of International Economic Law in Environmental Policy (Leverhulme Sustainable Transitions DTP) University of Essex in United Kingdom

[Fully funded masters and PhD studentship under the Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme. Includes £20,780 stipend, £2,500 for training courses, and £10,000 for research costs and further training.]

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Essex, under the Leverhulme Sustainable Transitions Doctoral Training Programme, offers a unique opportunity for UK-domiciled applicants from underrepresented groups to pursue a Masters degree followed by an interdisciplinary PhD. The research project focuses on the dynamic relationship between international economic law and environmental policy, exploring how legal frameworks facilitate or hinder environmental decision-making in a complex global context where economic, environmental, and security challenges intersect.

The successful candidate will investigate the interplay between trade, investment, finance, and environmental governance, employing a mixed-methods approach that includes legal analysis and secondary data analysis. The project is designed to be interdisciplinary, drawing on both law and government studies, and allows the student to develop their own specific research proposal within the broad thematic area.

Comprehensive training and support are provided through the Sustainable Transitions programme, including initial and ongoing interdisciplinary research methods training, access to the Proficio scheme (£2,500 for training courses), and an additional £10,000 for research costs and further training. Scholars will also benefit from the vibrant academic community at the Centre for Environment and Society, with opportunities for networking and professional development.

Eligibility is restricted to UK-domiciled applicants who do not already hold a Masters from Essex and are from a low-income background and/or specified ethnic groups (Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, Mixed – White and Black Caribbean, Mixed – White and Black African, or other relevant mixed backgrounds). A background in law is required, while experience in political science is advantageous but not essential, as the Masters year provides foundational research training.

The studentship covers full tuition, a stipend of £20,780, and additional funding for training and research expenses. Applicants are encouraged to develop a research proposal aligned with the project theme and will receive guidance from a supervisory team and the Sustainable Transitions management team. The application deadline is 13 April 2026.