PhD opportunities

I can accept PhD students through the following routes (but will not advertise through all routes every year):

  1. UNRISK CDT (funded by NERC)
    UNRISK will train students with the multidisciplinary knowledge and skills across climate science, data science and decision science to tackle the pressing challenge of reducing the risks associated with rapid climate change.” Specific projects listed on web page.
  2. UELA CDT (funded by EPSRC)
    For projects within the remit of the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. Specific projects listed on web page.
  3. UBEL DTP (funded by ESRC)
    For projects in social science. Relevant themes include Risk, Disaster and Resilience and Science, Technology, Prosperity and Innovation. Propose your own project.
  4. TREES DLA (funded by NERC)
    For projects in environmental science, with a fieldwork element. “An innovative, inclusive, and interdisciplinary PhD training programme dedicated to preparing the next generation of environmental scientists.” Specific projects listed (“route 1”) or propose your own project (“route 2”).
  5. UCL Research Excellence Scholarships
    Projects on any topic. See eligibility details in the link. Deadline 9th Jan 2026.


    If you have a project idea you would like to develop within the remit of one of the above programmes, please do get in touch. Closing dates for applications are typically in January, for a September start date.

    To apply for CDT/DTP/DLA projects, follow the instructions on the programme web pages (linked above).

  6. Research project funding (ad hoc)
    I will advertise specific projects when available. Closing dates vary.
  7. Industry/external sponsorship (by arrangement)
    I will advertise specific projects when available. If you have an industry connection and would like to propose a collaboration, please get in touch. Closing dates vary but I encourage students to start in September to make the most of introductory activities in term 1.
  8. Self-funded (as an exception only)
    Please note that being self-funded does not guarantee admission to the STEaPP PhD programme. No closing date, but I encourage students to start in September to make the most of introductory activities in term 1.

    To apply for departmental projects, see further info on the STEaPP graduate study web page.

I am willing to supervise students across a range of areas related to my research on the use of models to inform decisions. Projects should link models and decisions, and consider the social or political context of model use (mathematical questions are likely to be relevant, but if you are purely interested in technical/mathematical aspects of modelling you would be better off in another department). STEaPP is an inclusive interdisciplinary department with strong emphasis on real world impact, particularly policy engagement. You might find it helpful to see the list of my current students‘ projects.

Other graduate opportunities

Alternatively, you may be interested in STEaPP’s MPA (Masters of Public Administration) programme.