Creative Pathways to Climate Citizenship in Marginalised Communities

About the research project

Climate change is an issue that many Australians think about, yet it is rarely discussed in everyday life. This absence of dialogue hinders the development of the social consensus required to support a sustainable and equitable future. Communities already experiencing social and economic disadvantage are likely to be disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change, yet there is limited research on how to effectively engage these populations in meaningful climate change dialogue and action.

To date, most public engagement efforts have focused on the provision of scientific information. While necessary, information alone has proven insufficient to galvanise sustained engagement or action, particularly among communities who may feel marginalised from formal policy processes or disengaged from dominant climate narratives.

This PhD aims to investigate how artistic practices, when combined with facilitated climate change conversations, can support greater awareness, engagement, and adaptive capacity in rural and low-income communities. Drawing on the complementary strengths of art and dialogue, the research explores an innovative approach that engages both emotional and cognitive responses, particularly among individuals who may not yet have formed strong views on climate change.

Using an action research framework, the project will develop, implement, and evaluate participatory methodologies that integrate art-making with climate change conversations. The research will be grounded in partnerships with rural and low-income communities and relevant industry and community organisations in Tasmania. Through these collaborations, the project seeks to engage traditionally hard-to-reach groups in climate change dialogue and to contribute practical knowledge about inclusive approaches to climate citizenship and resilience.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Chloe Rumsby

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

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 by Research or equivalent in geography, sociology, fine arts 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 by Research or equivalent in geography, sociology, fine arts or allied fields.
• 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.
• Experience in arts
• 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 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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