Program Overview

Introduction to the PhD Program

The PhD program in question is a fully funded studentship sponsored by Anglian Water and the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe). The project aims to examine how commercial water users view the risks and benefits of using water reuse systems to provide non-drinking water for various applications.

Program Details

Overview

The program is designed to tackle one of the central challenges the water sector currently faces unlocking alternative water supplies to support economic activity and growth without compromising the resilience of public water services. The successful candidate will have flexibility in designing their research approach and drawing on a wide range of social science methods.

Key Commercial Sectors

The key commercial sectors of focus include, but are not limited to:

• Data centres and high-tech industries
• Food and beverage production

Industrial Partner

The industrial partner for this project is Anglian Water, the largest water and wastewater company by area in England and a leader in sustainable water management and innovation.

Project Goals

The project seeks to advance the existing work in exploring possibilities for water reuse and to help water companies and retailers understand the needs and concerns of key non-household customers in relation to water reuse.

Application and Admission

Eligibility

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant discipline. A relevant MSc degree is desirable but not essential. A track record of working in the water sector would also be welcomed.

Entry Requirements

• A first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant discipline
• A relevant MSc degree is desirable but not essential
• Experience of, or a good understanding of, qualitative and quantitative social research methods
• Self-motivation, strong communication skills, and a keen interest in applied social science research and the governance of the water sector

Funding

The PhD studentship will provide a bursary of ｣25,726 (tax-free) and cover registration fees for four years. Extra training and placement (overseas/industry) costs will be covered, subject to supervisor approval.

Program Structure

Duration

The program is a 4-year full-time PhD.

Start Date

The start date for the program is 28 September 2026.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is 25 March 2026.

Supervisors

Primary Supervisor

1st Supervisor: Dr Heather Smith

Secondary Supervisor

2nd Supervisor: Dr Marc Pidou

Diversity and Inclusion

Cranfield University is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in its CDT program and warmly encourages applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups.

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused, and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment.