PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Analyzing Public Understanding of Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, and Water Quality at Dublin City University
Dublin City University (DCU), a leading research-intensive institution in Ireland, is excited to announce the opening of a new PhD scholarship position at the DCU Institute for Climate and Society.
The PhD scholarship is part of the SFI Co-Centre for Climate + Biodiversity + Water, a research initiative that focuses on tackling interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and water quality. This collaborative initiative brings together research institutions across Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Great Britain to drive forward critical research and policy development in these areas.
About the Institute for Climate and Society at DCU
The DCU Institute for Climate and Society is a trailblazer in examining climate change from a social science and humanities perspective. It is the first academic research center in Ireland dedicated to promoting societal responses to climate change. The Institute’s mission is to explore how social processes and dynamics can either facilitate or hinder meaningful climate action. Through its research, teaching, and community engagement efforts, the Institute aims to support Ireland and global efforts in combating climate change.
The PhD Project: Understanding Media’s Role in Climate Communication
This PhD project will focus on analyzing how rural, farming, fishing, border, and coastal communities engage with and understand environmental issues, particularly those related to climate change, biodiversity loss, and water quality. The project will explore how these communities create and consume media, with a particular focus on social media. By examining both textual and visual representations of environmental issues, the PhD student will gain a deep understanding of the role media plays in shaping public perceptions of climate change and environmental policies.
Key Details of the PhD Position
- Stipend and Funding: The scholarship provides a stipend of EUR 25,000 per annum for four years, covering EU fees. Additional funding is available for research equipment, materials, fieldwork, and conference travel.
- Supervision: The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. David Robbins, Associate Professor in the DCU School of Communications.
- Training and Development: The PhD student will receive training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including research design, data analysis, and visual research methods. They will also be encouraged to attend international conferences to present their findings and further develop their academic profile.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this prestigious scholarship, candidates should meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Master’s degree in media studies, communications studies, environmental studies, computer studies, or a related discipline with first-class honours or a high second-class honours.
- Demonstrate a solid understanding of climate change, biodiversity, and water politics and policy.
- Show interest or experience in quantitative research methods, particularly the analysis of large data sets.
- Have knowledge or an interest in visual analysis and research methods focused on visual representations.
- Exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Pre-existing knowledge of the Irish and UK media landscape and how they approach climate change is an asset.
- Relevant professional experience is desirable.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following documents via email to [email protected] by May 1, 2025:
- A one-page motivation letter detailing why you’re interested in pursuing a PhD on this topic.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) listing your academic qualifications, research experience, and publications.
- A sample of written work (2,000–4,000 words).
- A copy of the highest degree obtained and a transcript of academic grades.
- Contact details for at least two references.
Interview Timeline
Interviews for the position will be held in late May 2025, with the PhD program set to begin on September 9, 2025.
Why DCU?
Dublin City University (DCU) is a dynamic institution that offers world-class education and a transformative student experience. With over 20,000 students, DCU is ranked among the world’s top young universities, with a strong emphasis on innovation, research, and societal impact. The DCU School of Communications is ranked among the top 200 departments globally for communications and media studies and offers a rigorous PhD program that supports a vibrant international cohort of students.
Closing Thoughts
This PhD scholarship represents a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most pressing global challenges of our time. If you are passionate about environmental issues and want to play a part in shaping how society responds to climate change, biodiversity loss, and water quality, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. David Robbins at [email protected].
Visit Official Website Here
Apply now and make a difference!
