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PhD Scholarship Opportunity - Cannabis Policy & Public Health

We are offering a fully funded PhD scholarship as part of a New Zealand Royal Society Te Apārangi Rutherford Discovery Fellowship–funded research programme examining cannabis legalisation through the lens of commercial determinants of health.

Scholarship overview

Status: Open

Key facts

Value: $35,000 p/a plus tuition fees
Duration: 3 years' duration
Number available: One position available
Type of study: Full-time, PhD or doctorate, Research

Application dates

Applications open: 12 January 2026
Closing date: 20 March 2026

The successful candidate will develop their own PhD project aligned with the programme, with flexibility to pursue personal research interests. The research programme investigates how the new legal cannabis industry shape information environment, lobby and influence regulatory processes, and promote industry-friendly narratives in digital spaces. Applicants with backgrounds in public health, drug policy, social sciences, media studies, business and digital marketing are encouraged to apply. Familiarity with cannabis policy or commercial determinants of health is an advantage.

The PhD will be based at the NZ Drug Research Team, SHORE & Whāriki Research Centre, Massey University (Albany campus, Auckland). International applicants are welcome but must relocate to New Zealand. Supervision will be provided by Associate Professor Marta Rychert, alongside senior researchers.

Scholarship details:
• $35,000 tax-free annual stipend
• Full doctoral fees covered for 3 years
• Start date May 2026 (flexible)

Applications close: 20 March 2026
Shortlisting and interviews: early April 2026

To apply or for more information, contact: Associate Professor Marta Rychert

PhD Scholarship Opportunity - Cannabis Policy & Public Health

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