Applications are invited for a three year PhD studentship on Maritime Governance based in the Coastal and Marine Research Centre (CMRC), which is part of the Environmental Research Institute in University College Cork. The successful candidate will contribute to the Marine Renewable Energy Ireland (MaREI) Project, co-ordinated by UCC and funded under Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centres Programme with support from Shell E&P Ireland Limited.
The PhD research provides an opportunity to undertake a robust review of governance arrangements for offshore decision making in Ireland, whilst building capacity to understand how the marine renewable energy community can develop innovative models for stakeholder engagement to support this emerging sector.
The overall aim of this research is to study the importance of governance as a critical enabling factor for moving knowledge into action. The study will draw from cases of international best practice; map where power and influence lie with regards to institutional arrangements for coastal governance in Ireland; understand how to bring about institutional and behavioural change in stakeholder involvement during the decision making process; and engage with key relevant stakeholders to develop a robust methodology which enhances transparency and accountability of the decision making processes for marine renewable energy.
The overall approach is aimed at matching academic research with innovation in decision making processes. This task will contribute to growing body of global work on coastal governance led by LOICZ (Land Ocean Interactions for Coastal Zones) an International Geosphere Biosphere Project (IGBP), which focuses on the development of integrated solutions between the scientific community and civil society. Collaboration with researchers from John Hopkins University, Maryland will ensure results are placed in an international context and that international expertise and guidance can be provided.
Background :
MaREI is an exciting initiative that aims to support and enable the Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) sector in Ireland by addressing major scientific, technical, social and economic challenges associated with the effective deployment of MRE devices. Under MaREI, researchers from six national third-level institutes will work collaboratively with 50 industry partners and employ a multi-disciplinary approach. The successful candidate will form part of the Governance Team in the CMRC. Dr Valerie Cummins will act as the primary supervisor.
The ideal candidate will require the following skills profile :
Essential:
- 1st or 2:1 Degree in geography, government, environmental science or law or Masters in Coastal Management or Marine Resource Management
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Proven ability to work on their own initiative
- Knowledge of participatory governance, environmental decision making, public participation, and relevant statutory processes
Desirable :
- Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment
- Experience of working with industry
- Understanding of current maritime planning issues in European / Irish waters
Terms :
This PhD research project is supported by Shell E&P Ireland Limitedwith provision for full fees and a (tax-free) stipend of €18,000 per annum.
How to apply :
Candidates should submit a letter of motivation and a Curriculum Vitae including references (at least one academic) via email to grainne.lynch@ucc.ie by 17:00 on 25th October 2013.
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