The School of Modern Languages and the Department of Politics and International Relations, supported by the ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP), invite applications for a PhD place with the possibility of a fully-funded ESRC studentship.

The Global Language-Based Area Studies pathway, which the School of Modern Language and Department of Politics and International Relations coordinate, would welcome applications with a social science orientation on topics which require detailed knowledge of or a readiness to undertake study of a modern foreign language, notably French, Spanish, German, Italian, Catalan, Portuguese, Chinese, or Japanese. Other languages may also be available via the University’s Language for All programme or, subject to the approval of the DTP, in the form of bespoke hard language training.

Students may apply to do language-based research on any aspect of area studies, contemporary history, African and development studies, migration studies, translation, gender studies, international relations and security, governance, comparative politics or industrial relations. However, before applying for these ‘general’ awards, students should check that there is the necessary research and supervisorial expertise within the School of Modern Languages and/or the School of Law and Politics.

Funding details
Full UK/EU tuition fees

Doctoral stipend matching UK Research Council National Minimum

Additional funding offered: Research training support grant

Eligibility criteria

Residency: UK Research Council eligibility conditions apply

Academic criteria
ESRC studentships are highly competitive, candidates should have an excellent academic background in the humanities or social sciences, holding a 1st or an upper 2nd class degree (or the overseas equivalent). Applications from those also holding a Master’s degree (preferably an ESRC recognised Master's degree or an equivalent background in research training) will be considered for a +3 award. There is no requirement to have already undertaken a Master’s as 1+3 students will have access to our MSc in Social Science Research Methods.

Please note that we consider all individual applicants on their specific merits. If you do not have the standard qualifications but have relevant experience or expertise, you may still apply and your application will be considered.