The adoption of sustainable decarbonisation and biodiversity practices: peer nudging within the Mid Ulster Biorefinery and Circular Economy Cluster

Summary

This PhD will explore the role of Nudge Theory (Thaler and Sunstein, 2009) and peer championing through the lens of the Mid Ulster Biorefinery and Circular Economy Cluster. The PhD is part of an ongoing project focused on the sustainable utilisation of livestock slurry. In particular the project considers the recovery of phosphorus from farm manures through innovative, mobile slurry separation systems that can be employed for the improvement of on-farm nutrient management for farmers across the region.

The objectives of the PhD are four fold:

1. The engagement of farmers: a crucial element of the overall project is to recruit, engage and expand the network of farmers in the Mid Ulster region to adopt the slurry extraction technology enhancing the circular economy cluster network. This will explore the use of Nudge Theory and peer/champion networking

2. Identification of best practices: in relation to the Biorefinery processes and technology development to showcase current and emerging agri-tech in decarbonisation

3. Data traceability: to explore the implementation and adoption of emerging technology/AI to provide data-driven, evidence-based decision making

4. Policy contributions: to contribute to policy impact and metrics in relation to the Agri-Tech Sectoral Action Plan 2024-2027, Circular Economy Strategy, Green Growth Strategy, Environmental Improvement Plan for Northern Ireland draft Climate Action Plan and overall Programme for Government Strategy 2024-2027.

This PhD project will be supported by the Centre for Competitiveness, the successful candidate will be jointly based between their premises and Ulster University Belfast campus.

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 demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Research proposal of no more than 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.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster

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)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD Scholarships are available for this project and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

To be eligible for these scholarships applicants must: be a UK or Irish national; or have pre-settled or settled status; or have indefinite leave to remain or enter.

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 i.e. September 2027.

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, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.