PhD-Learning from corporate governance: improving megaproject performance through best practices in organisational architecture
PhD @Loughborough University posted 14 hours agoJob Description
Project details
What can megaproject governance learn from the governance of large corporations? Megaprojects face an alarmingly high failure rate, with roughly nine out of ten experiencing significant cost overruns, delays, or benefit shortfalls – commonly referred to as the “iron law of megaprojects.” These challenges are often rooted in governance failures, such as unclear leadership, lack of accountability, and poor coordination among stakeholders.
Megaproject governance typically relies on temporary and fragmented frameworks involving diverse stakeholders, international consortia, and multiple layers of governmental or regulatory oversight. These structures often lead to slow, opaque decision-making processes, unclear accountability, and delayed responses to risks or changes in project scope. In contrast, large multinational corporations have developed advanced governance systems that enable them to handle significant complexity while maintaining speed, efficiency, and adaptability.
This research aims to investigate how lessons from corporate governance practices in large organisations can inform and improve megaproject governance. Through comparative case studies, the project will examine key governance principles and strategies from global corporations and explore their applicability to the unique challenges of megaprojects. This study offers the opportunity to collaborate with some of the world’s largest corporations and megaprojects, contributing to a deeper understanding of governance innovation in complex, high-stakes environments.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Professor Martin Morgan Tuuli
Secondary supervisor: Professor Amon Chizema
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) with a UK master’s degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Loughborough Business School requires a minimum IELTS band 7.0 or above with not less than 7.0 in each component. Further details are available on the international website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
£5,006 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£22,360 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025, January 2026, April 2026 and July 2026.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
How to apply
- Put together your research proposal (between 2,500 to 3,000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal.
- All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Business School’. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number: LB25-MMT-AC-unfunded.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them take a decision on your application.
