Evaluation of knowledge networks within and between water supply and sanitation schemes in developing countries. Bursary of up to £17,000 p.a. for 3 years plus fees available. Conditions apply.

Academic Supervisor: Dr Paul Jeffrey, Centre for Water Science, Sustainable Systems Department

Understanding the constraints and opportunities that different water supply and sanitation (WSS) schemes face, both from indigenous and exogenous sources, may help isolate where knowledge gaps lie and how contrasts between WSS projects can be bridged. In particular, the project seeks to develop innovative knowledge management tools to support WSS schemes and so generate accessible, relevant and timely resource solutions in light of the Millennium Development Goals.

Areas which may form a thesis include: exploring stakeholder receptivity to new WSS technologies in developing countries; determining how knowledge hubs evolve and coexist; and interdisciplinary approaches to the development of learning spaces and innovative knowledge management tools. The successful applicant will take responsibility for: reviewing WSS schemes and developing a criteria of performance indicators; creating an analytical framework to assess these indicators; undertaking qualitative fieldwork and; the preparation of reports and papers to support the project.

The successful applicant will be based within the Centre for Water Science at Cranfield University, which undertakes internationally leading research, education and training in technology and associated scientific, engineering and policy issues for the treatment, use and management of water. The Centre has been awarded an EPSRC ‘Technology Platform’ in recognition of our international standing and is the first university department outside of the USA to be awarded American Water Works Association Research Foundation (AwwaRF) funding. Unique facilities include a pilot-plant hall at Cranfield’s own sewage treatment works and state-of-the-art laboratories.

Entry Requirements:
Applicants should have a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree, or equivalent, in the Social Sciences, Humanities, Development Studies or Education.

Value of Award:
This studentship will cover tuition fees at the UK/EU rate only and provide a bursary of up to £17,000 p.a. for three years plus fees. Conditions apply. Details on application.

How to Apply
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the application form available here.

Alternatively, for more information and an application form please contact:

Enquiries,
Cranfield University, School of Applied Sciences,
Cranfield, Bedfordshire, MK43 0AL, UK
Tel +44 (0)1234 754086
Fax +44 (0)1234 754109
Email: appliedsciences@cranfield.ac.uk

Other research studentships are also available, for details please visit: www.cranfield.ac.uk/sas/studentships