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- Tasks: Conduct impactful research in social policy and social work.
- Company: Join Swansea University, a leader in social sciences.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD with a tax-free living stipend and research support.
- Other info: International students can apply without extra fees; great career prospects.
- Why this job: Make a difference in social justice and community welfare.
- Qualifications: Honours degree or master's required; non-traditional backgrounds welcome.
The predicted salary is between 20780 - 20780 £ per year.
Organisation/Company Swansea University Department Central Research Field Sociology » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country United Kingdom Application Deadline 11 Dec 2025 – 23:59 (Europe/London) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
Social Policy sits within the School of Social Sciences, and the Department of Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy. The Department is also home to the Centre for Social Change, which hosts regular seminars by both Swansea academics, collaborators and other academics across the globe. Swansea University hosts the ESRC Administrative Data Research Centre (Wales), which facilitates access to linked, de-identified administrative data in a secure environment.
Social Care and Social Work sits within the School of Health and Social Care, and is home to the award-winning DEEP initiative, devoted to devising new forms of participatory evidence-gathering, in ways suited to informing policy.
The Social Policy and Social Work teams are interested in supervising PhD work across the domains of the subjects. Particular areas of research expertise include:
- Inequalities and social justice
- the politics of social welfare
- relations between the state and civil society
- advocacy
- disability studies
- ethical issues in social policy
- children and children’s right
- the family
- communities and social care
- the social policy roles of the third sector
- co-production
- service outcomes for children, young people and families
- the rights of excluded groups (e.g. asylum seekers, Romanai and Traveller families)
- inclusive practices in social care research
To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equal to an honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters from a UK academic research organisation. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.
If you have any questions regarding your academic or fee eligibility based on the above, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk with the web-link to the scholarship(s) you are interested in.
WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.
The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees and an annual tax-free living stipend in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £20,780 for 2025/26). Students also have access to a Research Training Support Grant
To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equal to an honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters from a UK academic research organisation. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.
If you have any questions regarding your academic or fee eligibility based on the above, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk with the web-link to the scholarship(s) you are interested in.
WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.
Please see our website for more information.
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Social Care, Social Work, Social Policy: Fully funded PhD Scholarship in the ESRC Welsh Graduat[...] employer: Swansea University
Contact Detail:
Swansea University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Care, Social Work, Social Policy: Fully funded PhD Scholarship in the ESRC Welsh Graduat[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty at Swansea University. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the department's recent projects and publications. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! Attend seminars or workshops hosted by the Centre for Social Change. It’s a great way to meet people and show your enthusiasm for social policy research.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of success. We’re all about making the process smooth and straightforward, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Care, Social Work, Social Policy: Fully funded PhD Scholarship in the ESRC Welsh Graduat[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to thoroughly read the job description. We want to see that you understand what the role entails and how your skills align with it. Highlight relevant experiences that match the requirements!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications. Use specific examples from your background that relate directly to the areas of research expertise mentioned in the job description.
Show Your Passion for Social Policy: Let your enthusiasm shine through! We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in social care and social work. Share your motivations and any relevant projects or experiences that fuel your passion for this field.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application easily!
How to prepare for a job interview at Swansea University
✨Know Your Research Area
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific areas of social policy and social work that interest you. Familiarise yourself with current debates, key figures, and recent studies in these fields. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage meaningfully during discussions.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about their research, the department, or the scholarship itself. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you assess if the programme aligns with your goals.
✨Showcase Your Unique Background
If you have a non-traditional academic background, be ready to discuss how your experiences contribute to your perspective on social care and policy. Highlight any relevant skills or insights that set you apart from other candidates.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You might need to present your research ideas or previous work. Practise articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and receive constructive feedback.