The role of culture and artistic practice in contributing to sustainability research and science communication is becoming increasingly recognised. Artistic methods of community engagement have the potential to engage diverse publics in debating, understanding and contributing to vital decisions about the management of oceans, waterways and public spaces.Â
We offer a PhD Scholarship in Transdisciplinary Art-Science Sustainability Research between the departments of Dance Studies, Creative Arts and Industries, and School of Environment, Faculty of Science. This scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise (MBIE) towards the project;Â Sustainable Seas; Navigating Marine Social-Ecological Systems.Â
This position provides an opportunity to develop critical thinking and practice in the field of art-science collaboration toward environmental sustainability, particularly in regard to public perceptions of trust in regard to marine eco-systems.Â
The art-science element of this project involves developing creative means for public engagement, with the aim of contributing to a paradigm shift in the way New Zealand views, governs and manages its marine estate. This shift is needed to balance the enhanced use of marine resources and good environmental stewardship, while meeting the aspirations and rights of society.
Candidates suitable for this position will have proven ability to work across traditional disciplinary boundaries. They must have an Honours or Master’s Degree with a substantive research thesis component. We are seeking applicants with a background in either arts or environmental sciences, able to contribute to the development of practice-led, transdisciplinary sustainability research, that involves working with artists, general public, iwi and social scientists. Specialisation may lie in performance research, science communication, digital media expertise, environmental humanities, social sciences, intercultural engagement, narrative research, relational ontologies.  We will select a candidate who is self-motivated, with good verbal and written communication skills, has an excellent academic record and the background necessary to successfully undertake this research.
The School of Dance Studies and The School Environment at the University of Auckland both provide an excellent forum for trans-disciplinary research. Our Schools have extensive collaborative research relationships with other academic departments within the University, with other universities both in New Zealand and overseas and with key research institutes. This research project is trans-disciplinary; candidates will be required to develop their research against a background of art-science collaboration, thinking between creative practice, social sciences, critical theory, policy development and marine science. Support for the PhD project includes: a stipend of NZ$30,000 per annum for up to three years (this includes fees and an annual stipend of approximately $24,000NZD); a Postgraduate Research Student Support scheme designed to facilitate academic and professional development through conference attendance and short term hosting by relevant institutions. The advisory team will comprise Dr Alys Longley (Creative Arts and industries), Dr Karen Fisher (School of Environment), and Dr Carolyn Lundquist (Institute of Marine Science, University of Auckland).Â
How to apply: Potential candidates must have an Honours or Masters degree (or equivalent). The nature of the research project means that candidates from a variety of academic backgrounds may be considered. Interested candidates should email a cover letter outlining their background and a CV to Dr Alys Longley a.longley@auckland.ac.