PhD Studentship at The University of Exeter: Maximising Regional Benefit in Eco-Industrialisation

Fully funded PhD studentship under the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award (EPSRC DLA) for the 2026/27 academic year is now open with The University of Exeter. This studentship focuses on: Maximising Regional Benefit in Eco-Industrialisation: Pathways for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, exploring how eco-industrialisation can drive sustainable and inclusive regional development—an emerging area of global importance as countries transition to cleaner and more resilient economic systems.

University of Exeter – Department of Management
Entry: September 2026 | Application Deadline: 12 January 2026

This opportunity is ideal for aspiring researchers who want to examine the intersection of sustainability, industrial systems, regional growth, and policy innovation. Students will join Exeter’s vibrant postgraduate research community, supported by leading academics and world-class research facilities.This project aims to investigate how regions can harness eco-industrialisation to promote sustainable economic transitions, address inequality, and unlock long-term resilience. The PhD will explore practical and theoretical frameworks for designing eco-industrial strategies that benefit communities, industry, and the environment.

 

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About the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award

EPSRC DLA studentships at Exeter offer:

• Sector-leading training and professional development
• Cutting-edge research infrastructure and resources
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary work across science, engineering, management, and policy
• Collaboration with industry, public sector partners, and external organisations
• Guidance from experienced supervisors in the Department of Management

 

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Funding

The fully funded studentship includes:

• UK tuition fees
• Annual maintenance allowance of £20,780 (2026/27 rate) for up to 3.5 years
• Research Training Support Grant of £5,000
  Both UK and international applicants are eligible, subject to UKRI residence and fee rules.

 

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Eligibility

Applicants should hold (or be expecting to obtain):

• A First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree, or equivalent
• A relevant background in science, engineering, management, sustainability, or related fields
  Candidates with a lower classification and a Master’s degree or significant professional experience may also be considered.

If English is not your first language, you must meet the University’s language proficiency requirements.

 

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How to Apply

Apply here.

To apply, submit the required documents via the project-specific application link on the University of Exeter website. A complete application includes:

• Personal statement outlining your academic interests, experience, and motivation
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic transcripts
• Two academic references
• Evidence of English proficiency (if applicable)

References must be emailed directly by referees to: pgrapplicants@exeter.ac.uk by 30 January 2026.

Applicants may apply for up to three EPSRC DLA projects, indicating a preferred project in their personal statement.

 

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Selection Process

• Application deadline: 12 January 2026 (midday)
• Shortlisted candidates may be invited to a technical interview
• Finalists will attend a general interview around the week of 16 February 2026

 

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Commitment to Inclusion

The University of Exeter is committed to fostering an inclusive research environment. Applicants from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable adjustments will be provided throughout the selection and study process.

 

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This fully funded PhD studentship offers an exceptional opportunity for motivated students to contribute to cutting-edge research on sustainable regional development. Successful applicants will join one of the UK’s leading research universities and receive comprehensive academic, professional, and financial support throughout their doctoral studies.

For questions about the application process, contact: pgrapplicants@exeter.ac.uk

 

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The University of Exeter invites applications for a fully funded EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award PhD studentship titled Maximising Regional Benefit in Eco-Industrialisation: Pathways for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth. Open to UK, EU, and international applicants, this full-time studentship provides UK tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 for 2026/27), and a Research Training Support Grant. The project forms part of Exeter’s nationally recognized research environment and offers outstanding facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development. Applicants must hold at least an Upper Second Class undergraduate degree (or equivalent), and may apply for up to three EPSRC DLA projects. The deadline for applications is 12 January 2026, with referee submissions due by 30 January 2026. Interviews will take place in February 2026.

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