About the Project
The Department of Sociology at Maynooth University and Maynooth University Social Sciences Institute are pleased to announce that a PhD Scholarship will be available for a suitably qualified and successful applicant intending to commence their PhD studies in October 2026. This scholarship is available through the national research centre Rinn Artificial Intelligence – Research & Innovation in Data Science and AI, funded by Research Ireland.
Under the supervision of Dr Delma Byrne, the successful candidate will work on a cutting-edge project in the broad area of AI, public services and social stratification, with a specific focus on youth transitions through education, training, youth labour markets and welfare services, using a range of methodological approaches (qualitative and quantitative).
We are interested in candidates who want to generate new knowledge and write an innovative PhD thesis in the broad areas related to the delivery of AI in public services and youth transitions, particularly in the areas of education, training, youth labour markets, and welfare services. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to:
- The role of AI and data science in public services and youth transitions.
- How developments in AI and data science are:
- shaping youth labour markets and access to the labour market;
- shaping the delivery of and access to welfare services for young people;
- shaping education and training, and access to and experiences of education and training at all levels (including academic, vocational) for young people;
- How developments in AI and data science are (re)shaping inequalities in young people’s outcomes and experiences.
Value of PhD Scholarship Award
The award is a fully funded PhD Scholarship for four years, commencing October 2026 and running to completion in September 2030. The following funding is available for the successful applicant:
- Student stipend: €25,000 per annum for four years
- Annual Tuition Fees Support for four years
- Research/Travel Costs: Additional funds are available for materials, training, research and travel costs over the lifetime of the scholarship
Alongside their individual PhD research, the successful candidate will benefit from a structured, cohort-based PhD training programme within Maynooth University, and as part of Rinn Artificial Intelligence where the programme will include transferable skills training, group activities, training on domain-specific topics and peer-led learning opportunities, Dedicated career and skills development activities will also be offered.
Duration of PhD Scholarship Award
The scholarship is awarded for four years of full-time study, subject to satisfactory annual academic progression.
Role of the student
The project topic is defined, but its implementation is at the design stage and when complete, will be accompanied with defined deliverables. These must be completed in accordance with the requirements set out in the Research Student Programme Stages as outlined in the MU Regulations for Postgraduate Research Degrees. Importantly, the candidate will have an opportunity to contribute to the design of the PhD project. The PhD duties will include:
- Working under the supervision of Dr Delma Byrne (with additional guidance from other project leads).
- Undertaking aspects of the research design, data collection, data analysis, presenting findings, taking responsibility (with training and supervision) for various aspects of the research process.
- Taking part in interdisciplinary events.
Mode of Study
Awardees must be resident in Ireland and available to pursue their programme of research on a full-time basis at Maynooth University for four years.
The successful candidate’s research programme will be under the general supervision of their nominated supervisor(s) who will specify study times, research times, vacation periods and other operational requirements.
Awardees will normally be based at the Maynooth University campus and may only conduct research elsewhere with the permission of their supervisor, Head of Department and, where required, the Director of Graduate Research.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum first class or 2.1 honours in primary degree, or have a relevant Master’s degree in sociology, education, social policy, social psychology, anthropology, economics or related fields.
Key requirements include:
- Strong interest/background in at least one of the areas: social impacts of AI, social inequalities, youth transitions, public services/public policy
- Advanced quantitative and/or qualitative research skills (including ethnography)
- Experience of using one or more relevant statistical software (i.e., SPSS, R, Stata, Python, MAXQDA or other qualitative data analysis software)
- Strong theoretical and research design skills
- Willingness to work in an interdisciplinary environment
- Willingness to take part in an immersive enrichment engagement
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Application and Selection Process
Please include the following in your application:
- Personal statement/Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae in your preferred format
- Research proposal (max. 4,000 words)
- A sample of writing (preferably in English)
- Relevant final academic transcripts
- Names and contact details of two referees
English Language requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must provide written evidence of competency in the English language that satisfy the programme-specific requirements set out by the Maynooth University International Office. All scholarship awards are conditional on approval for registration by the University.
All eligible candidates will be considered for open positions. Applicants may be shortlisted for interview and, if so, will be contacted directly by the Department. Late applications will not be considered.
Informal queries can be sent to Delma.Byrne@mu.ie with the subject line ‘Expression of Interest – PhD Position in AI and Youth Transitions.’
Closing Date
Please apply by 5pm on Friday 18th September 2026.
Application Process
Please apply here: https://forms.gle/U6eQcbuyPhvKrxXW7 and indicate the Research Theme as Equitable Access & Input, the Host institution as Maynooth University, and the Supervisor Name in the appropriate place in the form.
This is a Preview Listing…
You must sign in to see the full job description, and to apply.
Manage / Upgrade this job to a Full Job Listing.
Find Your Best Opportunity
Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!