PhD Studentship: Implementation of the Human Right to Water

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 from the host institution  
• 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 master’s degree, such as: 

1. LLM Law, Environment and Sustainability  
2. LLM Public International Law 

This project would consider the practical implementation of the human right to water within developing countries. 

It will analyse different law and governance systems? That implement this right at national levels and the potential steps for improving effectiveness.  

The researcher would be able to consider the implementation of the right in the context of competing priorities and a range of governance issues.  

Interdisciplinary Focus and Methods

This project is interdisciplinary by focusing on the legal aspects of the development of the right to water and combining those with the methods that analyse governance issues, especially in regions in developing countries where demands on water supplies are stressed and can cause multiple challenges and hazards for citizens and communities.  

Training and Support 

You will be supported through the Sustainable Transitions training programme which provides initial training in interdisciplinary research methods, training in the secondary discipline within the project area and ongoing training throughout the duration of the programme. All doctoral scholars benefit from the support of Proficio which entitles you to £2,500 that can be used to purchase training courses either within or external to the University. Additionally Sustainable Transitions scholars are entitled to £10,000 that can be used to cover research costs and further training. Scholars are encouraged to audit masters and degree level course where appropriate. You will also have the support of the Sustainable Transitions management team, as well as your own supervisory team. All Sustainable Transitions scholars will become part of the University of Essex ‘Centre for Environment and Society’ through which ongoing events and networking opportunities are available.  

Person Specification

This opportunity would suit a candidate with a degree / background in law / international law. 

It is not necessary for the candidate to have prior training in international development or environmental governance 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

Home tuition fee waiver.  

Living costs stipend at the UK Research and Innovation recommended level per year. The stipend for 2025-26 is £20,780. The stipend for 2026-27 is TBA.

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

Closing Date: 11:59pm GMT on Monday 13^th April 2026

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