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Community Land in Europe: Governance and Sustainable Rural Development

AGH University of Science and Technology Centre for Mountain Studies, Perth College
✓ Funded (Competition) qualitative research common pool resources community land europe land ownership rural governance social innovation sustainable development

Investigate the dynamics of community land ownership in Europe and its role in sustainable rural development. Develop robust governance models through empirical research and innovative methodologies.

AI-generated overview

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Why This Research Matters

This research addresses critical challenges in land governance by focusing on community empowerment and sustainable management of resources. It informs policy and practice on democratic land stewardship, enhancing social equity and environmental resilience in rural Europe.

Community Land Ownership Sustainable Rural Development Land Governance Common Pool Resources Social Innovation Qualitative Research

Project Description

This PhD is part of the Community Land in Europe project funded by the Leverhulme Trust. It aims to understand how community ownership of land influences sustainable development across rural Europe. The research focuses on: how communities acquire and govern land democratic and participatory land management impacts on sustainability and rural development The project draws on: Common Pool Resources (CPR) theory (Elinor Ostrom) Social Innovation (SI) in land governance The PhD will involve: comparative case studies across at least three European countries qualitative research with communities Q Methodology to analyse local perspectives interdisciplinary and participatory research approaches The candidate will collaborate with a wider research team and contribute to ongoing project activities.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have a Masters or Honours degree in a relevant area or equivalent research experience, a strong interest and enthusiasm for the subject area, and proven qualitative research skills and experience.

How to Apply

end:

CV
Cover letter (motivation + relevant experience)

To:

Bobby.macaulay.perth@uhi.ac.uk

Application deadline: 17 May 2026 (23:55)
Interviews: 1–2 June 2026

Eligibility

UK/Home
EU
International

Supervisor Profile

DB
Dr Bobby Macaulay
AGH University of Science and Technology, Centre for Mountain Studies, Perth College
Google Scholar

Dr Bobby Macaulay is a researcher specializing in community land ownership and rural development, with a focus on governance and sustainability. His approach integrates social innovation and common pool resources theory to explore new models of land management. He leads interdisciplinary projects at the University of the Highlands and Islands, contributing to national and international research in land reform.