Evaluating the Impact of the Local Champions model for the AWAIR project

This project provides an opportunity for a LISS DTP PhD student to develop advanced research and academic writing skills while contributing to the evaluation of the Local Champions model —an initiative aimed at supporting local, social infrastructure integration alongside a network of AWAIR public air quality displays for facilitating discussions around pollution sources, mitigation and action.

As part of a larger research team in collaboration with Imperial College London, the PhD student will play a central role in evaluating the model’s impact. They will gain hands-on experience in qualitative research methods, including working with survey, focus group, and interview data to help identify best practices in community-led air quality initiatives.

The student will receive mentorship from experienced researchers, enhancing their academic writing skills through contributions to a peer-reviewed journal article. They will also develop science communication expertise by producing an infographic-style executive summary and social media content aimed at public engagement. Additionally, the student will have opportunities for networking and collaboration with external partners, including environmental advocacy groups and policymakers through workshops and other meetings.

By participating in this project, the student will expand their research portfolio, strengthen interdisciplinary collaborations, and gain experience in translating research findings into practical community applications, supporting their career development in academia, policy, and public engagement.

• Evaluate the Local Champions Programme in collaboration with Imperial College London researchers.
• Conduct a narrative review of existing literature around local champions and community-based environmental practitioners (finalise by end of month 1)
• Conduct up to six interviews with the AWAIR Local Champions (months 2 – 3)
• Take part in three 2-hour focus groups (by end of month 4)
• Analyse data obtained from the interviews and focus groups (months 3 – 5)
• Collaborate on academic writing, contributing as a co-author on a peer-reviewed journal article (finalise by end of month 6)
• Work with Community Champions to generate an infographic-style executive summary and social media content to communicate findings to a wider audience (finalise by end of month 6)

Note: The topic guides for the interview and focus groups have already been developed and ethical approval for this work has been granted. The student will receive administrative support from the AWAIR team to organise the focus groups and interviews. 

The intern would report to Dr. Kayla Schulte

• Hands-on training in qualitative research methods, including data collection, management and analysis.
• Experience working within a larger team of researchers
• Practice in academic writing through co-authorship of a peer-reviewed journal article.
• Networking opportunities with Imperial College researchers, external partners, and policymakers.
• Development of science communication skills, including creating infographic summaries and social media content.
• Opportunity to apply research findings in real-world community settings, enhancing impact and policy relevance.
• Experience in translating academic research into practical policy recommendations.

• This internship offers an excellent opportunity for PhD students seeking applied research experience with direct policy and community impact.
• The student will work closely with Imperial College researchers and external stakeholders, expanding their professional network.
• The project provides valuable experience in research design, data analysis, and academic publishing, enhancing future career prospects in academia, policy, and public engagement.
• The skills developed during this internship will be transferable to future interdisciplinary research projects, grant applications, and academic collaborations.

• Background in social science research methods, public health, environmental studies, or related fields.
• Experience or interest in qualitative research methods, including interviews and focus groups.
• Strong academic writing skills with an interest in publishing research.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating within a larger research team.
• Experience with or interest in community based participatory research
• Basic knowledge of data visualization or ability to learn infographic design tools is beneficial (i.e. Adobe, Canva, etc.).

• Co-authoring a peer-reviewed journal article, contributing to their academic portfolio.
• Producing an executive summary in infographic format for policymakers and community stakeholders.
• Developing social media content to share research findings with a wider audience.
• Presenting findings in internal research meetings, conferences, or policy discussions.
• Engaging with external partners and community groups to discuss the impact of the research.

1. Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and suitability to the project supervisor(s). Please contact the project supervisor(s) in advance of submitting the application with any questions.

2. If selected by the project supervisor

• LISS DTP students must then complete the LISS DTP Placement /Internship Application form. This ensures that there is approval of PhD supervisor, and the necessary information is obtained to extend funding (for DTP1 students) or confirm placement requirement fulfilled (for DTP2 students), and to fulfil ESRC reporting obligations. LISS DTP approval must be given before the RA internship can commence.
• Other ESRC-funded DTP students should follow the internship application processes from their home DTP.

Please note for LISS DTP students:

• Research Assistant Internships must not be undertaken with the student’s current supervisor and/or home department.
• DTP1 students (those whose funding commenced before Oct24): a maximum of 4 Research Assistant internships will be funded. These will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the 4 DTP1 places are filled, we will inform PIs that only DTP2 students are eligible for the Research Assistant internships. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL DTP1 PLACES HAVE NOW BEEN FILLED.
• DTP2 students (those whose funding commenced from Oct24): are required to complete a 3-month placement, which is funded through their studentship. No limits to number that can be funded.
• Reports: at the conclusion of the internship, the student will be required to complete an internship report, which will include a question for the internship host to feedback on the internship.

Contact liss-dtp@kcl.ac.uk with any questions.