These investments take broad form in terms of the construction of high voltage pylons to electric vehicle charging stations. Through the ripple effects in the economy, these investments may change economic growth across four nations of the UK.
According to the Office for National Statistics, disposable household income across the UK's 12 regions varies considerably, ranging from £20,562 in the North East to £36,487 in London.
This PhD examines whether low-carbon investment reduces regional gaps in employment, incomes and energy affordability. Applicants could focus on renewable energy, electricity networks or low-carbon heating. Depending on the research question and available data, methods could include spatial analysis, econometric policy evaluation or regional input-output modelling of employment and supply-chain effects. Findings would inform investment, skills and affordability policies for a just energy transition.
I am keen to work with British nationals to develop ideas to secure a PhD studentship. Cranfield is part of several networks to enable this. Just get in touch with me if this is an area of research that you want to work on.
At a glance
- Application deadline09 Dec 2026
- Award type(s)PhD
- Duration of award3.5 years Full time. 7 years Part time
- EligibilityUK
- Reference numberCRAN-0112
Entry requirements
Funding
The student will be supported to develop a proposal to secure studentship funding from UKRI. If your application is successful, you will be receiving a minimum full‐time stipend of £20,780 per annum plus fees* for three years.
Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield
We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. Cranfield strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential.
At Cranfield, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing.
Cranfield Doctoral Network
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This Network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas, identify opportunities for collaboration and create smaller communities of practice. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge.
Doctoral Researchers’ Core Development (DRCD) Programme
An important part of the research journey is developing key skills that will benefit a research students research and professional development. As a research student at Cranfield, you will be expected to attend the DRCD programme which comprises of four 1 week units which cover the key stages of your research journey. Workshops are held face to face, providing the opportunity for you to network and collaborate with your peers during these valuable development sessions. For further details visit Cranfield's Doctoral Network.
How to apply
If this is an area of research that interests you please contact Professor Nazmiye Ozkan n.ozkan@cranfield.ac.uk who will be happy to discuss and guide you in the next steps.
