Organisation/Company Swansea University Department Central Research Field Educational sciences Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 6 Dec 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/London) Country United Kingdom Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number RS992 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
Open to: UK and international applicants
Funding Providers: ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS)
ESRC WGSSS 50%; Swansea University 50%
Subject Area: Education
Project Start Dates: October 2027
** (Please see the note below regarding potential later start dates.)
**In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the discretion of the University and/or the relevant funding body, a deferral of offer may be granted to the next available enrolment period. Such deferral will typically not exceed a duration of three calendar months from the originally stipulated commencement date. Please note that only one deferral may be considered, and any such deferral is not guaranteed**.
This studentship is an ‘open’ award. Applicants must approach a potential supervisor prior to submitting an application. This is to confirm that there is appropriate supervisory capacity within the University and to discuss their draft application of which the supervisor must complete a section. Information on the research interests of our staff can be found on the Swansea University webpages. Short descriptions of each accredited pathway are available on the ESRC WGSSS website. The Swansea-based representative for the pathway, Dr Jane Gatley, J.O.Gatley@Swansea.ac.uk , might be able to advise you.
Full or part-time study is possible. Please note that full-time ESRC WGSSS studentship award holders cannot hold either a full-time job, permanent part-time job or temporary role for an extended period, during the period of their award. Part-time ESRC WGSSS studentship award holders cannot hold a full-time job.
Place of study
- Swansea University (Singleton Campus)
- Swansea University (Bay Campus)
At Swansea University, our Department of Education and Childhood includes a diverse spectrum of substantive and methodological expertise. Our department specialises in various domains, encompassing the realms of:
- Socioeconomic inequalities in education
- Care-leavers and estranged students
- Parental engagement and involvement
- Education leadership and management
- Technology and digital influence on education
- Children's voices and participation
- Curriculum and policy
- Additional learning needs
- Philosophical underpinnings of educational theory and practice
Our staff are experts in a wide range of research methodologies, including advanced quantitative methods, participatory action research, innovative creative methodologies, and robust qualitative research techniques.
The Department of Education and Childhood at Swansea University welcomes applicants who are eager to embark on distinctive and pioneering projects with the potential to generate real-world impact. We are open to applicants from different backgrounds, particularly those who have practitioner experience in education.
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.
The WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here English Language Requirements - Swansea University
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.
Applications may be submitted in Welsh and any application submitted in Welsh will be treated no less favourably than an application submitted in English. Please refer to the University’s Welsh Language Policy on Awarding Grants. Please see our website for more information on the selection process.
Specific Requirements
English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here English Language Requirements - Swansea University
Additional Information
WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise of 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 £21,805 for 2026/27).
Students also have access to a Research Training Support Grant.
Eligibility criteria
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.
The WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here English Language Requirements - Swansea University
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.
Applications may be submitted in Welsh and any application submitted in Welsh will be treated no less favourably than an application submitted in English. Please refer to the University’s Welsh Language Policy on Awarding Grants. Please see our website for more information on the selection process.
Selection process
Please see our website for more information.
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Education: ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) in Swansea employer: Swansea University
Swansea University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation within the School of Social Sciences. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on care-experienced children's educational outcomes in Wales. Located in a beautiful coastal city, the university provides a unique setting for personal and professional growth.
