Comprehensive Innovation for Sustainable Development

Summary

Sustainable development, emerging artificial intelligence systems and the need for different skills competencies require a more inclusive approach to innovation.

This inclusive approach has been termed Comprehensive Innovation by the United Nations and has been identified as a key area of focus for the Northern Ireland innovation ecosystem.

Three research areas have been identified within the remit of Comprehensive Innovation that are of particular importance for the Northern Ireland economy:

*Engagement with international trends in terms of economic and social development that is human centric, sustainable and resilient.
*The development of future skills that demonstrate agility, interrelationships, and systems perspectives.
*Alignment with international innovation management standards.

The supervisory team at Ulster University has undertaken foundational investigations into each of the above research areas and now wishes to further expand understanding and application of Comprehensive Innovation.

This research aligns with the innovation goals in the Programme for Government 2024–2027 and the Minister for the Economy’s economic vision.

The project provides an opportunity to engage with important global developments in the broad area of innovation while undertaking research of significance to the Northern Ireland economy.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000* (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or

• Have settled status, or

• Have pre-settled status, or

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period