PhD Studentship: Urban Blue Space: Exploring Dynamic Perceptions of Form and Function, and Their Implications for Urban Decision-making

Start date: 28/09/2026   

Fee status: UK

Duration *:  4 years

1^st Supervisor: Dr Simon Jude   

2^nd Supervisor: Dr Robert Grabowski   

This funded PhD studentship is an exciting opportunity to conduct new social-ecological research on perceptions of urban blue space. Despite often appearing to be natural systems, urban blue space is increasingly planned, managed, and engineered. New research is needed to understand how such areas, and particularly their dynamic nature, influence perceptions and decision-making.

Whilst often appearing to be natural systems, urban blue space is increasingly planned, managed, and engineered: blue spaces introduced on ecological grounds, nature-based infrastructure interventions to manage flood risk, and highly managed river restoration schemes, for example. They are also highly dynamic, exhibiting both rapid, short-term, spatio-temporal change. For some, blue spaces may be perceived as ‘wasted space’, whilst highly engineered systems may be perceived as natural. For others, blue space may represent a trusted form of flood protection or contribute to the sense of place and pride in an area. 

This exciting PhD studentship will investigate how the dynamic form and function of urban blue spaces influence perceptions. It will subsequently explore and evaluate the types of information and knowledge required to improve the understanding and appreciation of urban blue spaces, before investigating the implications for urban decision-making and resilience. 

The PhD researcher will have flexibility in the design and implementation of the project, adjusting the focus based on their interests and the latest research findings. However, we envisage that it will build on the NERC Defragmenting the Urban Environment (DEFRAG) project.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. Ideal for a geographer, environmental scientist or social scientist interested in how humans perceive, interact and influence the natural environment. Should be interested in applying social science approaches to an environmental setting. However, we welcome applicants from a range of disciplines and experiences, who have a passion for environmental research and strong written and oral communication skills, as we can complete existing strengths with targeted training. 

Funding

This fully funded Connected Waters Leverhulme Doctoral programme studentship is sponsored by the Leverhulme Trust and Cranfield University and covers a stipend (£20,780; tax free) and fees for up to 4 years for a home (UK) student.

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be classified as a home student. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK.

Scholars must be registered as full-time PhD students or provide a minimum time commitment of 50%, if part time students, unless the Trust gives explicit permission for this to be varied. Scholars will be subject to the terms and conditions applying to doctoral students within the host institution where they are registered. 

How to apply

For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Simon Jude
Email: s.jude@cranfield.ac.uk 

To apply please complete the online application form via the above 'Apply' button.

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