Understanding Inequalities Across the Lifecourse in the UK

About the Project

Social Statistics at the University of Manchester are pleased to invite applications for a 3.5 year University of Manchester PhD studentship. The PhD will be focused on one of the following UK policy areas: ageing, civic engagement, education, family life and communities, governance and policy making, housing, lifelong health, migration and population change, public attitudes, social mobility and work and employment.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated and qualified applicant to conduct social research using quantitative data analysis and mixed methods research.

The successful applicant will be working in a vibrant community of PhD students in Social Statistics, Data Analytics, Biosocial Research and Sociology. They will be able to join in the research activities of the Department, such as seminars and research away-days. They will have an opportunity to teach and undertake professional development training in research, writing and teaching during the PhD.

It is expected that the PhD student will prepare a thesis as a collection of research articles according to the postgraduate research policies of the University of Manchester. During the period in Manchester, the studentship will cover tuition fees, an annual maintenance stipend and the student will be able to claim certain expenses from the Research Training Support Grant.

Academic Criteria

English Language

The application deadline will be 11.59PM (BST) on 01/06/26. Apply online for PhD Social Statistics.

Under Section 6 Research Details select ‘Yes’ to Are you applying for an advertised project. Insert the project title as stated at the top of the advert. It is recommended when entering the name of the supervisor to simply enter this and not use the supervisor search function.

Indicate in Section 9 Funding Sources your intention to apply for the School of Social Sciences Studentship.

Please ensure all required supporting documents are included at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered. Your application must include the following:

• A 1,500-word research proposal
• Bachelor's academic transcript and certificate.
• Master's academic transcript and certificate. If your Master's degree is pending, please provide an interim transcript.
• If you have completed more than one Bachelor's or Master's degree, provide evidence for each. If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must provide an official English translation. If your weighted average mark or GPA is not included on these documents, include an official document from your university verifying this information.
• An academic CV
• Supporting statement of 500 words indicating why you would like to undertake this studentship and how your focus, experience, and skills link to the research outlined above
• You must nominate two academic referees (including one from your most recent institution).

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please contact Dr Kingsley Purdam (Kingsley.Purdam@manchester.ac.uk)

For enquiries about the application process, please contact: hums.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Interviews are expected to take place - TBC.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and are at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

Funding Notes

A 3.5 year studentship commencing in September 2026 cover tuitions fees, stipend (£21,805 for the 2026/27 academic year) and a Research Training Support Grant.