Call for PhD Fellowship on Justice & Energy Transitions 2026 is open now!!!
This fully funded PhD studentship forms part of the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project, Justice in Critical Minerals Governance and Energy Transitions. The studentship offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on justice, community experiences, and governance within global energy transitions, particularly in regions affected by critical mineral extraction.
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The successful applicant will join the African Leadership Centre (ALC), a globally recognised hub for research and training on security, leadership, peace, and development. The ALC is committed to producing African-led knowledge and advancing innovative approaches to global challenges. King’s College London, a world-leading research institution, will host the studentship, providing a vibrant scholarly community, excellent methodological training, and opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement.
The PhD project will be developed in alignment with the broader Fellowship, with flexibility for the candidate to shape their own research focus within themes of justice, extractive industries, socio‑environmental transitions, community participation, or bottom‑up knowledge production. Comparative studies that focus on Ghana, Chile and or Australia would be looked at favourably, although the PhD project is expected to have a global justice and energy transition appeal.
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As the world moves away from fossil fuels, the demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and copper—is skyrocketing. These minerals are essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. However, the extraction of these resources often occurs in ecologically sensitive regions and impacts marginalized communities. This PhD project seeks to investigate the governance frameworks and community experiences surrounding these extractive industries.
While the project maintains a broad appeal regarding global justice, it encourages specific comparative studies. Research proposals focusing on Ghana, Chile, or Australia are particularly welcomed. These regions represent diverse geographical and political contexts from the established mining sectors of Australia to the emerging mineral frontiers in Africa and South America. This provides a rich ground for comparative analysis of how different governance models handle energy transitions.
This opportunity is more than just a degree. It is a chance to contribute to a high-impact research project that aims to reshape how the international community perceives the green transition to ensure it is as equitable as it is sustainable.
Location:
United KingdomBenefits
- A tax-free stipend of £23,805 per year (paid at the UKRI rate) to cover living expenses for 3.5 years.
- The program covers the annual tuition fee of £8,000, including any adjustments for inflation in subsequent years.
- An additional £1,350 per year to support research-related costs and professional materials.
- Work directly within a prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project, gaining mentorship from leading experts.
- The opportunity to earn a Doctoral degree from King’s College London, one of the world’s top-ranked universities.
- Access to the African Leadership Centre (ALC) network, providing connections with global scholars, policymakers, and practitioners in energy governance.
Eligibilities
- Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (completed or near completion) in a relevant discipline, such as International Development, Political Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, Law, or other related social science fields.
- Applicants must have a strong academic record demonstrating research potential, with a specific interest or experience in qualitative, interpretive, or ethnographic methodologies.
- Applicants whose first language is not English must meet King’s College London’s English language requirements for PhD programs. Proof of proficiency may be required at the point of offer.
- Must be able to begin study in October 2026 and commit to full‑time study for 3.5 years and willingness to undertake fieldwork where appropriate and feasible within the project’s ethical and methodological frameworks.
- Eligible to study in the UK. While the studentship specifically covers tuition at the Home (UK) rate, the program is open to international applicants, and visa sponsorship is available for those who qualify.
- Applications are encouraged from candidates with lived experience or strong familiarity with contexts relating to extractive industries, energy transitions, or affected communities.
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted through the King’s Apply online portal. Register an account to begin your submission.
- Applicants should submit the following via the King’s Apply portal:
- A CV highlighting your academic achievements and research experience (max 2 pages).
- Cover Letter (1–2 pages) explaining your interest in the studentship, relevant experience, and alignment with the project
- Research Proposal (3,000–5,000 words) outlining your intended area of focus within the themes of justice, critical minerals, or energy transitions.
- Copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts.
- Two references (at least one academic)
Application Deadline: May 17, 2026 (13 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
