Moya Burns

Fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Leicester in Ecology, Environmental Science, Psychology, Education, and Public Health themes. The project, Growing Futures: Co-Designing Nature-Based Pathways to Wellbeing, Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Employability for Young Adults , explores how nature-based activities such as conservation, horticulture, and citizen science can support young people’s wellbeing, environmental connectedness, and employability. The project is co-designed with community partners and focuses on addressing youth unemployment and its impacts on wellbeing. The successful candidate will work alongside young people and local organisations to develop and evaluate nature-based approaches that improve outcomes for young adults across Leicestershire and Rutland. The recruitment process is described as inclusive and skills-based, and applicants with professional, voluntary, or lived experience are encouraged to apply. Eligibility is restricted to applicants who qualify for UK Home Fee status; applicants whose primary residence is outside the UK cannot be considered. The post welcomes candidates with experience in education, community development, conservation, horticulture, or related sectors. Application deadline: 29 November 2026. Further details are available via the linked project page.