GIF CDT: Public perceptions of carbon capture & storage (CCS)

The Green Industrial Futures Centre for Doctoral Training (GIF CDT) is inviting applications for the following project, expected to commence in either June or September 2025. This advert will close when a suitable candidate is identified, so early application is encouraged.

The CDT boasts an exciting and challenging programme specifically designed for top performing junior researchers, in addition to the main area of research, including:

• Residential taught training courses at each of the partner universities to contextualise your research within the wider net zero industrial landscape.
• An industry challenge project with one of our industrial partners.
• An international opportunity in year 2 or 3 of the degree, with the option for a second international visit in year 3.
• A bespoke ‘net-zero leadership programme’, including regular exchanges with cohort members from the other universities.

More information about the CDT can be found here.

Project

Tackling climate change will require reducing carbon emissions, but also technologies to remove them from the atmosphere. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) captures emissions from industrial processes and stores them underground. It is increasingly recognised that public acceptance of CCS is a vital precondition for its commercial-scale rollout. Yet, CCS remains controversial, with high-profile public opposition to particular CCS developments. Previous research indicates that public views about CCS vary across cultures, regions and demographic groups.

This PhD will apply qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods to explore CCS perceptions across and within several countries (including the UK). Methods may include deliberative focus groups, online surveys, and/or messaging experiments. There will be a particular focus on how perceptions vary geographically, across age groups, and in response to different messages or scenarios. Outputs will provide insights on how to engage adults and young people on CCS in the context of net zero energy transitions.

Candidate Requirements

As a minimum we require candidates to have a Distinction or Merit (or equivalent) at MSc/MA/MEng level in an area relevant to the project description, including social science research methods training. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.

Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.

Enquiries and Applications

Informal enquiries are encouraged! Direct these to Prof Whitmarsh (lw2253@bath.ac.uk) and Sophia Coe (sc3716@bath.ac.uk).

Please make a formal application via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Green Industrial Futures (full-time).

When completing the form, in the ‘Funding your studies’ section, please select ‘CDT’ from the first drop-down list. In the ‘Your PhD project’ section, please state the project title and supervisor’s name in the appropriate boxes.

Failure to complete these steps will delay the processing of your application and may cause you to miss the deadline.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value a diverse research environment and strive to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

The Disability Service ensures that individuals with disabilities are provided the support that they need. If you state if your application that you have a disability, the Disability Service will contact you as part of this process to discuss your needs.

Keywords: Public perceptions; carbon capture & storage; Industrial decarbonisation; communication; public engagement; net zero technologies