1-year Master’s by Research at the Department of Economics, Cork University Business School and Environmental Research Institute

Summary: Applications are invited for a 1-year Master’s by Research at the Department of Economics, Cork University Business School and Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork, co-supervised by Prof Frank Crowley, Dr Stephen Brosnan, Dr. Marica Cassarino and Dr. Annalisa Setti.

The Degree of MSc Commerce by Research is funded under the EU Mission Cities “Building Capa-cities” project led by Cork City Council and Dublin City Council, in collaboration with UCC. The objective of Mission Cities is to achieve 100 climate-neutral and smart EU cities and to ensure these cities act as testbeds for innovation in climate action, enabling all European cities to follow suit by 2050. 

Building Capacities aims to unlock the capacity for innovation in Cork City by incorporating behavioural science principles in the pursuit of urban sustainable practices. 

Background and objectives

Aim of the MSc: To examine how choice architecture interventions and behavioural economics strategies influence transportation behaviour

Research questions:  

1. How can choice architecture interventions influence pedestrian and transport behaviour during car-free and pedestrianisation days in urban areas? 
2. How do behavioural economics strategies, such as incentives and social norms, influence transportation choices during car-free and pedestrianisation days? 
3. How can city-level institutions develop internal capabilities to effectively apply behavioural science principles in the design and implementation of transportation strategies?

Methodology:  

• A case study approach using: 
• a quasi-experimental design with different choice architecture interventions (such as pedestrian-friendly streets, reduced parking, free Park & Ride, reduced bus fares, enhanced bike lanes, and signage). 
• a quasi-experimental design with different behavioural economics strategies (such as financial incentives, social norm messaging, loss aversion) in different city areas or on separate car-free days to measure their influence on walking, cycling, and public transport usage. 
• Data collection could include observational counts, pre, during and post surveys, footfall/GPS tracking, and air quality measurements to assess the impact of these interventions.

Through their work, the MSc will support the development of training programs that enhance staff capabilities and promote interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaboration, as well as the evaluation of local sustainable transport initiatives.

Note that this MSc requires a high level of in-person engagement and work. 

Funding

The MSc (Commerce) by Research position is funded for 12 months. It includes a tax-free stipend of €25,000 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate.