Hydrogen Futures, Rural Transitions: Skills for a Just Transition in the Highlands and Islands
Who will do the work of Scotland’s green hydrogen economy, and how can skills policy make sure rural Highland and Island communities share in its benefits?
- Status
- Ongoing
- Dates
- 2026 – 2030
- Funder
- University of Glasgow College of Social Sciences · PhD scholarship
The question
Green hydrogen has been named a regional transformation opportunity for the Highlands and Islands, but depopulation, skills shortages, limited training and barriers facing under-represented groups risk deepening rural inequality. This PhD asks how the hydrogen transition is changing demand for skills, how well training is keeping up, and how skills planning could build in the principles of a just transition.
What we are doing
This funded PhD studentship, led by Professor Andrew Cumbers (University of Glasgow), maps hydrogen projects, labour-market intelligence and local training initiatives, and compares Scottish and UK policy with hydrogen workforce strategies in rural Europe.
In-depth case studies in hydrogen hub locations use interviews, focus groups, participatory mapping and site observation, and regional workshops co-produce findings and recommendations with stakeholders.
Intended impact
Place-based evidence and recommendations for more inclusive green skills planning in rural Scotland.
Project team
Aylin AlkasPhD Researcher
Dr Gemma MilneSupervisor