Social Sciences and Humanities PhDs

The School of Social Sciences and Humanities is home to a lively community of 160 postgraduate researchers working closely with 120 specialist supervisors who conduct research at the cutting-edge of developments in their fields.

We are passionate about research: we use our knowledge, skills, curiosity and creativity to deliver novel, rigorous, transformative understanding that makes a difference in the world.

We pursue answers and solutions to challenging questions and problems across the Social Sciences and Humanities, extending into Environmental Science. Excited by our collective future, we provide an inclusive research environment where postgraduate, postdoctoral and academic researchers work closely together to develop their research careers.

Why study a research degree with us

87% of our Social Sciences and Humanities research was recently judged as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' (REF 2021)

Our postgraduate researchers are assigned two supervisors who are international experts in their respective fields, plus an internal reviewer, a Doctoral Programme Leader and a Director of Doctoral Programmes. This team provides tailored academic and pastoral support throughout their studies.

The School runs an extensive programme of research training and our postgraduate researchers have the chance to participate in and run seminars and discussion groups. These help them integrate into the School’s academic community and develop skills that will enable them to present their work at national and international conferences.

Our current PhD opportunities

Our current PhD opportunities are listed below, these projects already have a specified topic and allocated supervisor.

Discover more about the project, funding and how to apply by clicking on the opportunity that sparks your interest.

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Meet our doctoral researchers

Wooyun Jo

International Relations, Politics and History

Emma Bates

Geography and Environment

Aaron Eames

English

Yingzi Wang

Communication and Media

Eloise Malone

Communication and Media

Jamie MacManaway

Geography and Environment

Anna Wehren

Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy

Isobel Sigley

English

Chantelle Taylor

Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy

Further information

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Your journey into research

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Funding your research

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Create your own research proposal