Relational and socio-material approaches to domestic consumption

Relational and socio-material approaches to domestic consumption

This doctoral scholarship forms part of a multidisciplinary research project funded by the Australian Research Council's Discovery Project "Empowering households as active agents of change in resource-efficient sustainability transitions". The project is a collaboration between RMIT University, Monash University and the University of Manchester.

The PhD will advance knowledge of household practices in sustainability transitions by drawing on insights from social practice theories, household consumption studies, and relational consumption research.The research will co-design intervention and policy programmes with householders, industry experts, intermediaries such as service providers, and decision-makers and policymakers to support multi-sector change across energy, water, food and waste. Using Change Points workshops, the research will combine interpretive social science with policy work to advance knowledge. The PhD researcher will be supervised by Professor Ralph Horne and Dr Bhavna Middha, and will be based across the Post-Carbon Research Centre and the Centre for Urban Research at RMIT.

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$35,886

One (1).

You must have a Masters by Research degree; or A Master by Coursework degree with a significant research component graded as high distinction or equivalent; or An Honours degree achieving first class honours in social science, human geography, public policy or another related field; or equivalent including academic publications. You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or an onshore international candidate.

2026-05-31

To apply, please submit the following documents to Professor Ralph Horne (ralph.horne@rmit.edu.au) and Dr. Bhavna Middha (bhavna.middha@rmit.edu.au) .

Expressions of interest should contain the following information:

  • A two-page (maximum) cover letter briefly outlining your interest in the project and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.
  • Evidence of research ability: A digital copy of a Master's or Honours' thesis; and a digital copy of academic transcripts.
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) including any publications, awards, and relevant professional experience.Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a formal application and interview.

Terms & ConditionsThis scholarship will be governed by RMIT's University's Research Scholarship Terms and Conditions.

How to apply. 

Some preferred capabilities:

  • Skills in qualitative research with householders
  • Experience in engagement with industry and government representatives.
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