Research Ireland

PhD Opportunity at Dublin City University (DCU) School of Psychology in Contextual Behavioural Science, Psychology, and textile circularity.

This 4-year full-time research PhD studentship is titled Enhancing Circularity in Textile Design through Contextual Behavioural Science and is linked to the Research Ireland-funded PUreTex project. The project investigates how stakeholder behaviour across the textile lifecycle affects end-of-life outcomes, with a focus on fast fashion, circularity by design, and right-to-be-recycled design principles.

The research will build on existing metacontingency analyses and pilot interventions with designers and consumers. It aims to identify and test the functional relations driving stakeholder behaviour, develop targeted behavioural interventions, and support policy and industrial workflows that divert textiles from landfill. The work is multidisciplinary and involves collaboration with engineers, policy experts, physical and chemical scientists.

Funding: The scholarship provides a stipend of €25,000 per year plus fees support up to €6,000 per year, subject to satisfactory progress and outputs.

Eligibility: Applicants should have a strong primary degree (First or Second Class Honours) or an M.Sc. in Psychology, Contextual Behavioural Science, or Behavioural Analysis. Relevant professional experience may also be considered. An interest in sustainability is essential. The ideal candidate should be self-motivated, able to work in a multidisciplinary team, and have experience with mixed-methods behavioural research, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate behavioural science for non-expert audiences. English language requirements apply for non-native speakers.

Supervisor: Dr Emma Delemere, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Dublin City University.

Deadline: 5 June 2026.

How to apply: Email a CV and a personal statement (max 1 page) to [email protected] with the subject line “PhD Application – PUreTex”.