MENDELU students can join an interdisciplinary field expedition to Prince of Songkla University in Phuket, Thailand, in November/December 2026. The programme will explore how one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic tourist destinations is changing and how tourism development affects local communities, public space, the economy and the environment. Applications are open until 4 October 2026.
What happens when rapid tourism development meets local communities, public space and nature?
During the expedition, students will work in small international teams and carry out hands-on fieldwork in and around Phuket. No previous research experience is required. Curiosity, reliability and a willingness to explore are more important.
1. Who benefits from tourism?
Quality tourism, luxury development, local businesses and the changing tourism economy.
2. How much tourism is too much?
Tourism intensity, overcrowding, pressure on infrastructure and the carrying capacity of tourist destinations.
3. Tourism and public space
How tourism transforms streets, beaches, neighbourhoods and the everyday use of public space.
4. Beyond tourism and development
Economic diversification, new industries and Phuket’s development beyond its traditional dependence on tourism.
5. Governing a tourist island
Public services, environmental management, local governance and the implementation of tourism policies.
6. Green Phuket
Biodiversity, green infrastructure, waste, coastal environments and the environmental sustainability of tourism.
Students will collect and analyse real field data using accessible research methods such as field observation, spatial mapping, infrastructure assessment, counting, environmental assessment, photographic documentation, business mapping, comparative analysis and questioning.
The exact research focus will depend on each student’s academic background and interests. The programme is therefore open to students from different faculties and disciplines.
The expedition is open to MENDELU students interested in tourism, regional development, sustainability, environmental issues, geography, economics, public policy, political science, forestry, agriculture, horticulture, landscape management, communication or related fields.
By taking part, you can:
Applicants are asked to submit two short documents:
Briefly describe what you would like to explore during the expedition:
a. Research area – indicate which of the six thematic areas interests you most.
b. Research topic – develop a specific question or topic you would like to investigate within your chosen area.
c. Methods and work plan – briefly explain how you would like to study the topic and what you would aim to do during the fieldwork in Phuket.
d. Motivation – explain why you would like to join the expedition and how it relates to your academic interests or future plans.
e. Previous experience – briefly describe any relevant academic, fieldwork, research or other experience. Previous research experience is not required.
f. Thesis or other output – indicate whether and how the expedition could contribute to your BA or MA thesis, another academic project or another output.
Please include your study programme and year, relevant academic interests, skills and experience, language skills and any other information you consider relevant to your application.
The proposal does not need to be a fully developed research project. We are primarily interested in a good research idea, curiosity and your motivation to explore the area through fieldwork.
Application deadline: 4 October 2026, 11:59 pm
Applications must be submitted via the Contact Centre in UIS.
Dr. Martin Petlach
Department of Area Studies, MENDELU
martin.petlach@mendelu.cz
Dr. Jiří Čeněk
Department of Social Studies, MENDELU
jiri.cenek@mendelu.cz