The two doctoral positions are part of a larger research programme led by Professor Frank W Geels and funded under a prestigious first round grant from the European Research Council.
The title of the research programme is: `Destabilisation of sociotechnical regimes as the key to transitions towards sustainability´. This refers to the important emerging field of study concerning non-incremental changes in transport, energy and food systems necessary in order to achieve more sustainable societies - a field in
which Professor Geels is a leading figure.
The theoretical framework for the programme involves an exploration of the mechanisms and conditions under which existing systems or regimes become unstable. This may partly be as a result of external pressure (from policy makers or civil society), or partly because of changing beliefs of industry actors. The research programme is multi-disciplinary and will combine insights from sociology of technology, neo-institutional theory, and evolutionary economics. Empirical work
focuses on the coal industry, car industry and (pig) farming industry, using case studies as the main method.
The doctoral students will be expected to work as a key element of the research programme under the personal supervision and direction of Professor Geels. Their contributions will be intrinsic to achieving the theoretical and empirical goals as specified in the awarded research proposal. This is available at http://www.sussex. ac.uk/spru/ 1-2-2.html.
The successful applicants will receive a salary of ₤21,050 per year over a period of forty-two months. During this period, the salary will be subject to standard incremental advancement. This compares favourably with the level of remuneration and three year funding period that is normal for doctoral positions, thus giving additional funded time for completion of the thesis and preparation of publications. The project budget also includes provision for appropriate travel and a computer.
The successful applicant will need to pay the standard applicable student fees.
We are looking for excellent applicants, who meet the following criteria:
They have completed a master in sociology of technology (STS), neo-institutional theory, evolutionary economics or organization/ business studies.
Applicants should be excellent, and are invited to provide indications for this (e.g. high grades, won prizes, published articles, recommendations) and their suitability for the project.
Demonstrable affinity or experience with the issue of sustainability and the domains of transport, energy/coal, or agriculture is preferable.
Current first year (research) students are also invited to apply.
The projects are open to international candidates.
Applicants should include a CV and a letter that explains: a) why they are interested in the project (programme text available at http://www.sussex. ac.uk/spru/ 1-2-2.html), b) why they are good candidates for the post (indications of excellence). For the purposes of evaluation, applicants should also submit a 4-6 page research outline relating to the areas defined in the proposal posted at
http://www.sussex. ac.uk/spru/ 1-2-2.html.
This documents should be submitted at:
Applicants should also indicate under 'other information- finance' that they are applying for an ERC Studentship in SPRU under the `Destable´ Project. Please inform Merrill Jones in SPRU (mcj22 @ sussex.ac.uk) when you have sent your application.
Closing date: 1700, 11 July 2008
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