EPRC is seeking applications for a PhD studentship to investigate how sudden change affects peripheral communities in northern Europe, as well as the mechanisms which enable these communities to adapt.
Climate change in the Arctic is associated with a rapid expansion of economic development but also has major environmental, social and cultural implications, prompting academic and policy debate about the management of change and the involvement of local communities. Studies suggest that actors in peripheral communities face particular constraints in cooperating with others, but also that interaction may be particularly fruitful for these communities by encouraging the critical mass needed for economic development, expanding capacity to engage with mainstream institutions, and enhancing political 'voice'. In particular, the research will examine how these communities can learn from each other and develop capacities and 'voice' to manage the effects of sudden economic change.
Alongside its theoretical contribution, the PhD will include a strong policy element, and will explore how mechanisms such as the European Territorial Cooperation Programmes may provide a framework for collaborative learning and managing economic development to the benefit of peripheral communities. The studentship will cover fees (up to the home/EU rate only) and provides a stipend of approximately £13,863 per year for 3 years. Closing Date: 22 August 2014 Details on how to apply are available here.