Department of Sociology
Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences
University of Surrey

Models in Policy Making - Funded PhD Studentship
The Department of Sociology invites applications for a funded studentship associated with the interdisciplinary research project ERIE (Evolution and Resilience of Industrial Ecosystems), a joint venture with the Departments of Mathematics and Computing and the Centre for Environmental Strategy (http://erie.surrey.ac.uk).
Models are increasingly being used to inform public sector decision-making, but we know little about their role: who uses models, what kinds of models are used, for what ends, how the outputs of models are interpreted and by whom, the relative importance of model-based conclusions and other inputs into the policy-making process, and so on.
This project aims to increase our understanding of the role of computational models in particular, but also other types of models, in UK policy-making. It will also help to recommend the types of models that are most useful or influential to policy makers. The project will track a few representative models from conception through to use (or non-use) to identify their impact. The work will involve interviewing policy-makers, analysis of policy documents, and reviewing the characteristics of policy models.
This PhD project will contribute to the wider aim of the ERIE project, which is to embed complexity science methods and techniques within prototype computational tools that will provide policymakers with realistic and reliable platforms for strategy-testing in real-world socio-economic systems. ERIE aims to generate theoretical insights and outcomes with practical value for stakeholders, and offers the opportunity to test scientific insights in practical business contexts to promote regional sustainable development.
The successful candidate will join the vibrant multidisciplinary environment of the large ERIE team, including four post-doctoral researchers, nine PhD students, and eight Investigators from the Centre for Environmental Strategy, and the Departments of Sociology, Mathematics, and Computer Science.
Funding:
The 3-year studentship is funded by the University of Surrey, as a contribution to ERIE. It covers Home/EU tuition fees and a maintenance grant of at least £13,890 per annum. Information about eligibility criteria for Home/EU fee status can be found at: http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/tuition_fees_ewni.php#
Entry requirements:
Essential
• Masters level degree with a research methods component in Sociology, Geography, Economics, Political Science, Environmental Science or a related subject
• Aptitude and enthusiasm for doing interdisciplinary research
• Interest in and ability for working in a collaborative environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
Desirable
• Knowledge of computational modelling and simulation
• Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative social science

Applications:
Informal enquires can be made to Professor Nigel Gilbert ([email protected]).
To apply, please send:
• A covering letter highlighting:
a) Why you are interested in this particular research topic
b) Why you are interested in doing a PhD
c) Which specific skills and aptitudes you feel you would bring to the research project and the ERIE team
• A copy of your current CV including the names of two referees
• A sample of your academic writing
• The abstract from any research dissertation you have completed

to Richard Sandiford by email to [email protected] or by post to:
Postgraduate Administrator, Department of Sociology, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, United Kingdom. Tel: +44(0)1483 689453

Closing date: 9am Monday, 18 June 2012
Interviews: 27 June 2012
Start date: 1 October 2012