PhD scholarship students join USW as applications open for 2025
17 October, 2024
Three students have started their studies at the University of South Wales (USW), funded by the Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS). The initiative is aimed at training the next generation of social scientists to address pressing societal issues.
Jay Chard is joining the University to begin his research entitled ‘Walking the Walk: An assessment of UK universities’ commitment to Climate Justice within Sustainability and NetZero Strategies’.
He said: “This is an exciting opportunity to address some of the biggest questions facing society today. I'm dedicated to exploring sociological responses to the climate emergency. I'm looking forward to both the personal development opportunity it represents, as well as the chance to contribute to pressing sociological and environmental concerns.”
While Menna Evans is investigating ‘Water Insecurity, Conflict and Crime: The Role of Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Measures in Afghanistan’. She said: “It is a huge honour to be awarded this studentship and so I am still a bit in disbelief that I've been this lucky. Not only is it an amazing opportunity by itself just to be able to research a topic I am so passionate about, but it also offers training and development opportunities that I wouldn't be able to access otherwise. I am so excited to get started and to make the most of everything this studentship offers.”
Bishnu Bahadur Khatri is travelling from Nepal to investigate ‘Effecting Policy Change to Enhance Climate Change Resilience Within Threatened Communities In Nepal.
Bishnu said: “Being awarded the studentship is an incredible opportunity to embark on my PhD journey. As I prepare to study at the USW, I am excited to engage with its vibrant academic and research communities, gaining insights from distinguished faculty and researchers while collaborating with like-minded peers. I am looking forward to deepening my knowledge, enhancing my research skills, and expanding my academic horizons. This studentship will empower me to maximize my studies, achieve impactful results, and successfully complete my PhD journey as planned.”
Professor Martin Steggall, Pro Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation, USW said: “We are proud to be part of the Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences.
“USW has a long and distinguished history of impactful research in social sciences/policy, evidenced by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 outcomes that placed our submission as 1st in Wales for impact. We pride ourselves on not only the strength of our research but also the opportunities and experiences made available to our students, which is reflected in USW being voted the top university in the UK in the recent postgraduate research experience survey. Being part of the WGSSS, will further enhance the research and training opportunities open to social sciences students and we look forward to working in collaboration and partnership with colleagues across Wales and beyond.”
The WGSSS, part of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), is open for 2025 applications. The deadline is 11 December 2024.
A collaboration between seven universities, WGSSS offers a unique platform for aspiring researchers. The program will provide cutting-edge training across 15 thematic pathways, including those focused on social care, social work and social policy, criminology, and law. Students will benefit from extensive support, world-class research supervision, and practical placements to ensure they are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to public policy and community well-being.
Funded by the ESRC, the partnership will offer around 360 studentships over five years, creating a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community. Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Welsh Government and Natural Resources Wales, the WGSSS also ensures real-world impact, offering students opportunities to engage directly with decision-makers and stakeholders.
This prestigious studentship is designed to support individuals from all backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. For those seeking to pursue a PhD in social sciences, this program provides not only financial support but also access to an unmatched network of academic and professional resources across Wales.
For more information, visit the WGSSS website. To apply for a studentship at USW, please use the following links:
Studentship in Social Care, Social Work and Social Policy
Studentships in Law and Criminology