University of Essex
Just Landed
New Today
PhD Studentship: Implementation of the Human Right to Water University of Essex in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Sep 14, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Essex
How do I apply for this?
Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.
Meet Kite AI
More information can be found here
Keywords
Suggested scholarships
About this position
PhD Studentship: Implementation of the Human Right to Water at the University of Essex is an interdisciplinary research opportunity within the Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme. The project examines how the human right to water is implemented in developing countries, with particular attention to the legal and governance arrangements that shape access, effectiveness, and accountability at national level.
The studentship is designed for an applicant from an underrepresented group and includes a fully funded master’s degree followed by a fully funded PhD. The research is especially relevant to candidates interested in law, international law, human rights, water governance, and development challenges. The project is broadly defined, allowing the successful applicant to shape a specific proposal in consultation with the supervisory team.
Research themes include the practical implementation of the human right to water, comparative law and governance systems, competing policy priorities, and the stresses placed on water supply in developing-country contexts. The project combines legal analysis with methods drawn from governance research and offers training in interdisciplinary research methods, a secondary discipline, and ongoing doctoral development.
Funding is substantial and includes a home tuition fee waiver, a living costs stipend at the UKRI recommended level, a £10,000 research allowance for authorised research costs, and additional Proficio support worth £2,500 for training courses. Students will also be part of the University of Essex Centre for Environment and Society, with access to events, networking, and the support of the Sustainable Transitions management team.
Eligibility is restricted to UK-domiciled applicants who have not already obtained a master’s degree from the host institution and who meet the low-income background and/or specified ethnicity criteria set out in the advert. An appropriate background in law or international law is preferred, while prior training in international development or environmental governance is not required.
The closing date is 14 September 2026 at 11:59 pm BST. Applicants should apply via the University of Essex research opportunities page and submit an application that includes an initial research proposal, which can be refined later with supervision.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
Ask ApplyKite AI
How do I apply for this?
Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.