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Hi all, Folk may be interested in the following PhD project available at the University of Glasgow. Also see the following link for current human geography phd opportunities in Glasgow. http://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/ges/research/postgraduate/#/phdstudentshipsinhumangeography Cheers Dave Creating Coalitions for Low Carbon Transition in the City: Urban Politics/Energy Engineering Project description: Cities have been identified as critical spaces in the battle against climate change. In the face of the power of vested interests in carbon-based energies and technologies at national level, the lack of renewable base-load capacity, and current government policy that has created considerable uncertainty, city actors are mobilising to effect changes at the local level. These involve bringing together alliances of activists, local government official and scientists and technologists to develop multi-modal solutions that can address production, consumption and distribution of energy in the areas of greatest population density. New strategies that involve investment in renewable energy, the shift to district heating systems and combined heat and power systems, as well as innovations in organisation and ownership are aimed at a step-change in low carbon transition and climate change amelioration. The overarching aim of the project will be to critically interrogate the effectiveness of new political coalitions that combine technical knowledge with local political action and social movement campaigns to effect urban low carbon transitions. The project will explore how such coalitions are capable of decisively changing urban development trajectory and fostering broader processes and narratives of urban sustainability. The project will involve a comparative study exploring recent initiatives in UK cities where low carbon transition initiatives are underway. It will also draw upon experience from other European cities – notably in Germany and Denmark. As such, it will contribute to wider conceptual and policy debates in Scotland, the UK and more broadly on low carbon transition. The project will be directed by a multi-disciplinary team (from management, engineering and geography) and in close collaboration with key stakeholders (from government, NGOs and the renewable energy sector). The doctoral researcher will undertake a comparative case study analysis of initiatives in two cities and the blockages and obstacles to fulfilling low carbon objectives. The research will involve a multi-method research design combining qualitative and quantitative data. The research will explore the interrelations between different economic, political and technological interests in prosecuting low-carbon agendas over a sustained period. An important issue will be the role of technical advocacy groups, civic coalition and environmental entrepreneurs in shifting established and incumbent interests, confronting carbon-based technologies and developing more innovative technical solutions along low-carbon pathways. Person specification: A good first degree in social sciences or environmental management and preferably masters degree in these areas. Essential characteristics are experience of undertaking qualitative research and some knowledge of quantitative techniques. Evidence of ability to engage in team work and meeting project deadlines are also essential. Knowledge of debates regarding climate change and urban and local governance, community engagement. Person Specification: Applicants must possess: • A 1st Class or 2:1 Master degree in a subject with relevant connection with Social Sciences, environmental management, Engineering, Physics, etc. • Experience of both qualitative and quantitative research techniques • High motivation and excellent English communication skills. • Evidence of ability to engage in team-work and meeting project deadlines. Desirable qualities include: • Knowledge of debates regarding climate change and urban and local governance, community engagement. • Experience of working with diverse groups in community-based projects at home or overseas. • An interest in working across cultures and languages. • Confident oral communication skills. • An interest in low carbon footprint technologies. The successful candidate will need to be enthusiastic about acquiring new skills in an interdisciplinary setting and have a strong interest in sustainability in new technologies. Project team: Professor Andrew Cumbers Adam Smith Business School (lead supervisor) Dr Andrea Cammarano, School of Engineering Dr David Featherstone, School of geographical and Earth Sciences Professor Paul Younger, School of Engineering Application details Applications details: deadline 22nd January. For any questions or further information, please contact Professor Andrew Cumbers, [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> or 0141 3302291. Please provide the following: • Covering letter • Candidate statement clearly articulating why you wish to pursue a research career, why this PhD opportunity is right for you and how you meet the person specification. • CV including details of scholarships/awards/prizes/other recognition of outstanding achievement and publications of previous research • Degree transcripts. Applicants may submit applications up until the application deadline of Friday 22nd January 2016.