Cost-effectiveness analysis of climate emergency humanitarian early intervention

Prof. Geoff Simm and Prof. Dominic Moran

Closing Date:  5th January 2022

This PhD will use risk prediction and economic modelling methodologies to investigate the cost-effectiveness of using forecasting to predict food security emergencies. Forecast-based action, which uses meteorological forecasts, price data, and satellite-based livestock production models to project the likelihood of weather-related distress, can be used to identify poor conditions, trigger aid earlier, and allow households to avoid harmful coping strategies. The cost-effectiveness analysis will compare the forecast-based action approach with the conventional model of post-shock humanitarian aid.

This PhD will allow the student to develop skills in economic appraisal and evaluation, including concepts and definitions, analytical frameworks, measurement of costs and benefits, placing monetary value on program elements, costs, and forecast-based action.

Expected steps:

1. A systematic literature review and narrative synthesis to determine which evaluation methods (economic and non-economic) are currently being used to appraisal humanitarian programs

1. Develop a model for cost-effectiveness and collect data needed to populate the economic model

1. Work with observational and trial datasets to estimate  cost-effectiveness of the trial interventions

1. Estimate cost-effectiveness of alternate interventions and the implications of alternative measures of cost-efficiency

References:

Dempsey, B & Hillier, D. A Dangerous Delay. The cost of late response to early warnings in the 2011 drought in the Horn of Africa. (2012). Oxfam International, Save the Children UK.

https://resourcecentre.savethechildren.net/document/dangerous-delay-cost-late-response-early-warnings-2011-drought-horn-africa/

Fitzgibbon, C. The economics of early response and disaster resilience: lessons from Kenya.

(2013). Humanitarian Practice Network. The economics of early response and disaster resilience: lessons from Kenya - Humanitarian Practice Network (odihpn.org)

Idris, I. Cost-effectiveness in humanitarian work: preparedness, pre-financing and early action. (2018). K4D – Knowledge, Evidence and Learning for Development.

This opportunity is open to UK and international students and provides funding to cover stipend, tuition fees and consumable/travel costs.  Applications including a statement of interest and full CV with names and addresses (including email addresses) of two academic referees, should be emailed to [email protected].

When applying for the studentship please state clearly the project title/s and the supervisor/s in your covering letter.

ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE CLOSING DATE 5th JANUARY 2022