UofG-USYD Collaborative PhD Scholarship - Caught in the sludge: legibility and the accessibility of energy support in Australia and Great Britain

This PhD project investigates barriers to accessing energy support in Australia and Great Britain, focusing on administrative burdens (“sludge”) that prevent eligible households from receiving assistance. The research will examine how policy design, bureaucracy, and system complexity affect accessibility, particularly for vulnerable populations. Using Design Thinking approaches, the project will explore how policies can be redesigned to reduce barriers and improve outcomes. The study includes a cross-national comparison between Australia and the UK, contributing to policy development in energy poverty and social welfare systems.First Class Honours degree or Master’s by Research with strong results (or equivalent) • Demonstrated interest in public policy, social policy, or related fields • Experience in quantitative or qualitative research methods • Ability to undertake interdisciplinary and cross-national research • Ability to study full-time across both institutions

First Class Honors degree or Master’s by Research with strong results (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated interest in public policy, social policy, or related fields
• Experience in quantitative or qualitative research methods
• Ability to undertake interdisciplinary and cross-national research
• Ability to study full-time across both institutions

Apply via the University of Glasgow Scholarships Portal with required documents including application form, transcripts, CV, and references.