PhD researcher wins in SGSSS competition final

PhD researcher Jenna Gilmartin, Department of Work, Employment and Organisation, has won the 'planned impact' category of the 2025 Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) Impact Competition for her research into the gig economy.

Jenna was one of eight shortlisted candidates for this year's SGSSS competition which showcases the amazing work that doctoral researchers are planning to do across Scotland or have already achieved. 

The candidates all put together videos and posters which showcased their research and the impact it is making and there was a public vote to decide on the winners of each category.

On winning the award, Jenna said, "I was incredibly honoured to be shortlisted and even more so to have won the SGSSS Planned Impact section of the competition. It was a fantastic experience, not only to showcase my own research but also to hear about the impactful work being done by fellow academics.  

“The Competition provided a unique experience to connect with others and learn from their innovative approaches to tackling real-world challenges. I look forward to continuing to contribute to impactful research in the future.” 

Jenna’s PhD supervisors are Dr Kendra Briken and Professor Stewart Johnstone. Dr Johnstone said, ““We were delighted to hear of Jenna’s award. Her research project on worker rights and voice in delivery work is not only important given Scotland’s vision of becoming a Fair Work Nation, but especially timely given potential implications of the current Employment Rights Bill on worker rights in this area of the economy". 

Jenna's research - "Sorry We Missed You: The Unheard Voices of the Independent Retail Gig Economy" - gives voice to the often overlooked delivery workers trapped in insecure paid gig economy work. Hidden behind algorithmic control, they face unstable hours and poor protections. As new UK legislation promises change as part of the Employment Rights Bill, smaller employers risk falling short. Jenna's study exposes the reality for the workers and demands urgent action for fairer work. By investigating the workers' experiences and expectations, Jenna seeks to highlight the precarious nature of their work and advocate for improved conditions and right.

See more on the competition at the SGSSS website.

Published: 20 May 2025