PhD Studentship: Institutional, Financial and Behavioural Determinants of Bankability in Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Projects

Project details

This PhD project explores how climate mitigation and adaptation projects can be designed and structured to become genuinely bankable and capable of attracting private and blended finance at scale.

Despite the urgent need for investment in low-carbon and climate-resilient infrastructure, many climate projects fail to reach financial close due to uncertainty, weak risk allocation, institutional constraints and misaligned incentives.

The research will examine the institutional, financial and behavioural factors that shape bankability in climate projects, drawing on project finance theory, climate finance, and behavioural decision-making.

Using a mixed-methods approach, including literature review, interviews with financiers and project developers, analysis of climate project datasets, and selected case studies, the study will develop and validate a practical framework linking project design choices to financing outcomes.

The research aims to generate both academic insight and actionable guidance for policymakers, investors and project sponsors, contributing to improved mobilisation of private capital for climate mitigation and adaptation and supporting the transition to more sustainable and resilient economies.

Supervisors 

Primary supervisor: Professor Martin Tuuli

Secondary supervisor: Dr Freeman Owusu

Entry requirements 

At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) with a UK master's degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding 

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.

Funding for this studentship is awarded on a competitive basis and is not guaranteed; availability will depend on the outcome of the selection process and is subject to final approval by the university.

How to apply 

Put together your research proposal (between 2500 to 3000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal.

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Business School'. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number LB26-MT/FO.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them take a decision on your application.

Contact details 

Call: +44 (0)7361736755

Email: m.m.tuuli@lboro.ac.uk

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