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School of Applied Sciences is recognised globally for its multi-disciplinary approach to research and teaching in relation to manufacturing, materials, and environmental science and technology. Cranfield is third in the UK for the impact of its mechanical, aeronautical and manufacturing research. We received a strong result in the Agriculture Unit of Assessment with 85% gaining international status and 40% of that research being deemed of an internationally excellent standard*. We are one of the UK's top five research intensive universities**. Through our focus on fundamental research and its application to meet the needs of industry and society, Applied Sciences is a major contributor to these positions. We have a successful track record of working closely with organisations around the world. Our success is due to our staff and the quality of the students whose careers we help develop. We operate key facilities which underpin our research, teaching and short courses.
*In relation to the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). ** Research income as a percentage of turnover.... |
Supervisors: Alison Parker and Paul Jeffrey
Duration of award: 3 years
Award type: PhD
Anticipate Start Date: Sept 2012
Supported by the EU, a studentship of up to £16,000 for three year plus UK/EU fees is available*
Cranfield University has an exciting opportunity to work as part of an EU funded project, exploring how social and economic imperatives shape the ability of communities to take advantage of technological solutions to improved drinking water.
In India, over 90 million people still lack access to improved drinking water sources. New technologies are frequently being proposed to fill this gap, including solar powered membrane filtration. However, in order for these technologies to function effectively and provide clean water to those in need, community requirements and contexts need to be better understood.
In particular, deeper engagement with the nature and influence of cultural, social and economic constraints on the adoption and use of candidate technological solutions can generate improved design, functionality, and sustainability of technological interventions.
Working as part of an EU funded project, this PhD will explore how social and economic imperatives shape the ability of communities to take advantage of technological solutions to improved drinking water. This will be achieved through a series of water resource assessments, stakeholder mapping and willingness to pay surveys undertaken in collaboration with Indian partners.
The results of will be used to develop recommendations for the rest of the consortium for technology design and scale up. Overall the research will generate new knowledge about how technologies can be integrated into communities to provide health, economic and quality of life benefits, particularly in the Indian context.
Entry Requirements
The successful applicant will have a background in a social science at Masters level or at Bachelor’s level with relevant work experience. However, an understanding of technical issues and an ability to communicate across disciplines and cultures will also be necessary. A desire to work in the development sector is essential and previous experience is preferable. The successful applicant will be well organised and capable of working independently.
Funding
*Supported by the EU this studentship will cover the tuition fees at the UK/EU rate only and provide a bursary of up to £16,000 p.a. for three plus fees* years dependent upon qualifications and experience.
Non UK/EU students are eligible for the bursary of up to £16,000 p.a. but will have to pay the remainder of their tuition fees before commencing their studies.
This would be a sum of £24,600.
How to apply
Please complete the online application form
Alternatively, for more information and an application form, please contact:
School of Applied Sciences
T: 44 (0)1234 754086
E: appliedsciences
cranfield.ac.uk
