Postgraduate research opportunities Green vs. Non-Green Innovation: The Role of Regulatory Policies and Market Dynamics
ApplyKey facts
- Opens: Thursday 12 March 2026
- Deadline: Thursday 30 April 2026
- Number of places: 1
- Duration: 36 months
- Funding: Home fee, International fee, Stipend
Overview
Innovation drives economic growth and sustainability, but firms’ ability to innovate depends on finances, competition, and regulation. This research examines how climate policies and financial constraints influence firms’ choices between green and non-green innovation, using theoretical models and firm-level data to assess whether environmental policies stimulate or hinder technological progress.Eligibility
A minimum of a 2:1 at the Bachelor’s level (or equivalent) is required. Candidates from disciplines such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, economics, or related quantitative fields are strongly encouraged to apply. While applicants need not be Business majors, they should demonstrate a clear interest in finance or economics. A strong quantitative background—particularly in mathematical modelling, statistical analysis, or computational methods—is highly preferred, as the project requires advanced quantitative training.
Strathclyde Business School is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive postgraduate research population. We make decisions on entry by assessing the whole person and not relying solely on academic achievements. On that basis, please ensure that your application (via your CV and covering letter) can evidence your resourcefulness, commitment and resilience as demonstrated by broader professional and life experiences. This evidence should be centred on your ability to undertake and complete a PhD and contribute to a positive PhD community.
If English isn't your first language, you'll need an IELTS score of 6.5 (or an equivalent test) with no individual element below 5.5. You must upload ONLY these documents to your application:
- covering letter
- an updated curriculum vitae / résumé
- contact details of two academic referees, including email addresses
- academic transcripts, which must be certified copies
- evidence of English Language qualifications as required (if previously obtained)
Please also indicate the title of the scholarship you are applying for in the Field of Study section of your application.
Project Details
Innovation drives economic growth, enhances competitiveness, and helps address global challenges such as climate change. Firms innovate through new products, improved technologies, and environmentally friendly solutions, but their innovation capacity is influenced by financial constraints, competition, and government regulation (Hall & Lerner, 2010).
Green innovation is increasingly encouraged to reduce environmental impact, yet it remains unclear whether it complements or crowds out other types of innovation, such as technological or product development (Aghion et al., 2016; Popp, 2010). Climate policies—such as carbon pricing and international agreements like the Paris Agreement—aim to promote sustainable practices, but they may also create financial pressures that influence firms’ broader R&D investments (Dechezleprêtre et al., 2017).
Financial constraints further shape firms’ decisions on allocating resources among different innovation activities (Acemoglu et al., 2012). Understanding how competition, regulation, and financial limitations interact is therefore critical for effective innovation strategies (Porter & van der Linde, 1995).
This research examines the relationship between green and non-green innovation and how climate policies influence firms’ innovation strategies. Using theory-driven quantitative analysis, the study aims to provide insights for policymakers on promoting sustainable innovation while supporting long-term technological progress.
Further information
Both supervisors will provide guidance on methodological and empirical aspects. The Department of Accounting and Finance, as well as the faculty, organises various workshops and seminars. Furthermore, the department's strong connections with industry and its extensive alumni network ensure that the student will have access to practical experience and industry insights. Additionally, the student will benefit from the opportunity to attend advanced methodological training sessions. Support will be provided for the student to attend conferences, particularly in the second and third years of their PhD studies.
Funding details
A fully funded scholarship for three years covers all university tuition fees (at the UK/home rate) and provides an annual tax-free stipend.
International students are also eligible to apply. Exceptional international candidates may receive additional funding to cover the difference between the home and international tuition fees.
While there is no funding in place for opportunities marked "unfunded", there are lots of different options to help you fund postgraduate research. Visit funding your postgraduate research for links to government grants, research councils funding and more, that could be available.
Apply
Potential applicants should contact Dr Hai Zhang in the first instance to discuss their interest. Email: hai.zhang@strath.ac.uk
Number of places: 1
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Accounting and Finance
Programme: Accounting and Finance