"ESRC WGSSS Studentship in the Politics, International Relations and Area Studies Pathway"

The School of Modern Languages at Cardiff University are delighted to offer fully funded Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) (ESRC DTP) studentships in the Global Language-Based Area Studies Pathway starting in October 2026. Language-based area studies draws upon foreign language skills to explore the society, politics or culture of a particular country or region. Students may do research on Britain, Europe and its member states; African studies; China or Japan, nationalism and identity politics; justice and incarceration; multilingualism and social linguistics; international relations, security and comparative politics. We particularly welcome applications on topics which require knowledge of, or a readiness to undertake study of one of the major European languages, Chinese or Japanese. Other languages may also be available via the University’s Languages for All programme or via intensive language training. Applicants should consider approaching a potential supervisor before submitting their application to confirm that there is appropriate supervisory capacity and to discuss their application. Information on staff research interests can be found on Cardiff’s School of Modern Languages (MLANG) web pages. In some instances, students may benefit from co-supervision by staff in Cardiff’s Department of Politics and International Relations. Entry Criteria: To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equivalent to an UK honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply. Duration of study: Durations of study varies from 3.5 (PhD) to 1+3.5 (MSc + PhD) years full time (or part time equivalent). The duration study is dependent on prior research experience and training needs of the student which will be assessed by completing a Development Needs Analysis. We welcome applications for both full and part-time study. Research in practice placement: All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent). All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations. International Eligibility: 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. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and 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. Assessment: Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview. As part of the interview process, applicants will be asked to give a short presentation and answer a series of panel questions. Interviews may be conducted in person or via Teams. Applicants are reminded to submit all relevant documents by the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. How to apply: Applications should be received no later than 11/12/2025 including all required documents. All applications should be submitted via the ‘apply now’ box. Please include the following documents with your application: WGSSS Application Form (WGSSS Studentship Application Form 2026), Academic CV (two pages maximum), 2 academic or professional references, Degree certificates and Transcripts, If relevant, proof of English Language Competency. Funding: The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees, an annual tax-free living stipend of in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £20,780 for 2025-26 full-time) and includes access to a Research Training Support Grant. Full and part-time applications are welcomed. If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship. All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent).