Serious Fun: Using Games to Democratise Carbon Dioxide Removal Decision-Making

About the research project

As climate change intensifies, the case for technological interventions such as carbon dioxide removal is growing. But these emerging technologies raise complex ethical, environmental, and social questions that remain poorly understood. There is a risk that in the urgency to mitigate dangerous climate change, carbon dioxide removal technologies may be uncritically or inequitably applied, sidelining democratic participation and transformative possibilities.

This PhD project seeks to address this challenge by developing innovative, play-based methods to help citizens collaborate in decision-making about carbon dioxide removal technologies. It will explore how deliberative play, particularly through the design and use of tabletop games, can foster inclusive, equitable, and imaginative dialogue between citizens, governments and industry. Social games are accessible, enjoyable, and adaptable to various social contexts, making them ideal tools for participatory futures thinking. By reimagining how we engage citizens in shaping climate futures, this research aims to support more just and democratic pathways through the climate crisis.

Building on emerging scholarship in serious games and climate adaptation, this research will investigate how play can democratise future visioning and support informed, collective decision-making. This project will contribute to both theory and practice by:

• Designing and testing game-based tools for public deliberation on carbon dioxide removal technologies.
• Advancing interdisciplinary knowledge at the intersection of sustainability, science communication, and participatory design.

This exciting and well-supported project allows a candidate to work on a pressing societal problem and work closely with partners in CSIRO CarbonLock Future Science Platform. It is part of an Australian Research Council DECRA project titled ‘Futures in Play: Helping Citizens Share Responsibility for Democratic Climate Adaptation’ led by Dr Chloe Lucas. The project includes conference travel funding.

Reading:

Abend, P., Beil, B., & Ossa, V. (Eds.). (2020). Playful participatory practices: Theoretical and methodological reflections. Springer.

Dove, Z., Jinnah, S., & Talati, S. (2024). Building capacity to govern emerging climate intervention technologies. Elementa: Science of the Anthropocene.

Fritz, L., Baum, C. M., Low, S., & Sovacool, B. K. (2024). Public engagement for inclusive and sustainable governance of climate interventions. Nature Communications.

Mangnus, A. C., Oomen, J., Vervoort, J. M., & Hajer, M. A. (2021). Futures literacy and the diversity of the future. Futures.

Vervoort, J. M., et al. (2022). Not just playing: The politics of designing games for impact on anticipatory climate governance. Geoforum.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Chloe Rumsby

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:

• a living allowance stipend co-funded with ARC of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years
• a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• The project is open to applicants who have a First Class Honours Degree, Masters Degree or equivalent in geography, sociology, or allied fields.
• Applicant must be available to undertake the project on-campus in Hobart, Tasmania.
• The degree must be undertaken on a full-time basis.

Selection criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

• A First Class Honours Degree, Masters Degree or equivalent in geography, sociology, or allied fields.
• A first-authored publication in an international, peer-reviewed, Q1 journal (as reported by SciMago)
• Ability to design and implement research projects, collect, and analyse data, and write up research findings in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to work across different disciplines and collaborate effectively with stakeholders from a range of backgrounds, including scientists, policymakers, and community members.
• Ability to engage with stakeholders, including community members and policymakers, and translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and actionable information.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to identify research gaps and develop innovative solutions to address complex climate adaptation challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Evidence of excellent English communication skills, including writing for academic and policy audiences.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Proficiency in relevant social research methodologies and techniques for studying public engagement and decision-making.
• Demonstrated interest in climate adaptation, climate risk management or carbon dioxide removal technologies.
• Previous research experience, particularly related to climate adaptation or public understanding of science.
• Experience in science communication. 
• Experience of tabletop gameplay and game design.
• Experience in engaging with stakeholders, such as local government, policymakers, or community groups.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Chloe Rumsby to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. In your application:
   • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
   • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
4. Apply prior to 1 June 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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