PhD Studentship: The Role of Trade Law in Environmental Policy

Project Overview 

This is an opportunity for a person from an underrepresented group to undertake a fully funded master's degree followed by a fully funded interdisciplinary PhD research degree under the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’ at the University of Essex.

Only UK domiciled applicants who meet the following criteria may apply:

• Not already have a Master’s degree
• Be from a low-income household background as evidenced by, for example, being in receipt of a full maintenance loan or Special Support loan during their undergraduate studies.

and/or

Be one of the following categories of ethnicity:

• Black African
• Black Caribbean
• Black Other
• Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
• Mixed – White and Black African
• Other mixed background (including Black African, Black Caribbean and Black Other)

The successful applicant would study an appropriate masters degree, such as:

• MSc in Environmental Futures with Climate Change
• Msc in Political Economy
• Msc in International Relations

In political science international trade is a determinant of openness and globalisation. Countries involved in trade are arguably better incorporated into an international system that facilitates international environmental cooperation. A legal perspective, trade law regulates within this sphere. This research project will investigate how trade policy, including soft and hard law instruments facilitates or hinders environmental policy decision-making, outputs and effectiveness at a time when ‘economic security’ has become a growing concern within the green transition. Research on environmental politics has examined issues such as preferential trade agreements, we also need to consider how legal perspectives can relate to environmental policy. This is particularly important within existing geopolitical contexts.

Interdisciplinary Focus and Methods

A synthesised approach combining the disciplines of government and law is needed to further our understanding of international trade law and environmental governance. Specifically, the object of this project is to question the impact of trade law on environmental policy and performance. A mixed-methods design including among others text analysis, process tracing, and the use and analysis of secondary data  to fulfil this project.

Training and Support

You will receive support through the Sustainable Transitions training programme, which offers interdisciplinary research methods, secondary discipline training, and ongoing development. Doctoral scholars also have access to £2,500 through Proficio for training courses and £10,000 for research and additional training. You may audit relevant courses and will be supported by both the Sustainable Transitions management team and your supervisory team. Additionally, all scholars can join the University of Essex’s ‘Centre for Environment and Society,’ which provides events and networking opportunities. 

Person Specification

This opportunity would suit a candidate with a degree/ background in political science and environmental politics along with an interest in law. Some knowledge of research methods is essential for this position but we expect the postgraduate year to offer specific skill as apart of essential training

It is not necessary for the candidate to have prior training in law as this will be provided on the programme.

Research Proposal

The project area is broadly defined, leaving scope for the applicant to develop their own specific research proposal as part of the application. The successful candidate will further develop their proposal in close consultation with the supervisory team.

Additional Funding Information

A research allowance of £10,000 (in total) to be spent on authorised research costs for example supplies and equipment, field work etc. 

Closing Date: 11:59pm GMT on Friday 18th April 2025

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