PhD Candidate in Ethnographic Research on Seaweed Economization in Scotland

This PhD position at Leiden University’s Institute of Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology focuses on investigating how the economization of seaweed—part of broader ‘blue economy’ strategies—affects coastal communities in Scotland. The project examines local impacts, social relations, and contestations arising from new economic valuations of seaweed ecologies, integrating multispecies anthropology and political ecology. The successful candidate will conduct ethnographic research in Scotland, including participant observation, interviews, and participatory visual storytelling, while collaborating with partners at the University of Edinburgh and Scottish Association for Marine Science. The role emphasizes interdisciplinary research, academic dissemination, and community engagement, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainability and environmental justice studies.

• Develop a research proposal aligned with the project’s theme and conduct 12 months of ethnographic fieldwork in Scotland, including historical document analysis, participant observation, and interviews.
• Analyze research findings and write a dissertation contributing to the project’s objectives, incorporating qualitative and participatory visual storytelling methods.
• Collaborate with team members on academic and non-academic publications, science communication, and organizing workshops, seminars, and exhibitions.
• Participate in PhD courses and masterclasses at Leiden University and the University of Edinburgh, integrating into both institutions’ PhD programs.
• Engage with the PhD program and academic activities at Leiden’s Institute of Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology, including participation in Scottish Association for Marine Science events.
• Actively contribute to the project’s output and dissemination, ensuring community and stakeholder engagement throughout the research process.