About the Program
Swansea University invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship in Law and Criminology under the ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) Law and Criminology pathway. This prestigious doctoral position, starting in October 2026, provides a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research connecting law and social science. Students will work with Swansea’s vibrant School of Law, including the Centre for Criminal Justice and Criminology (CCJC), Cyber Threats Research Centre, and the Observatory on Human Rights and Social Justice. The program encourages empirical research across youth justice, drug policy, cybercrime, human rights, and crimes of the powerful, offering access to administrative data, fieldwork, and international collaborations. Supervisors include pathway representatives Dr Mike Harrison and Dr Emma Nishio, who provide guidance on research alignment and methodology. The position promotes engagement in workshops, conferences, and WGSSS residential training, fostering a dynamic academic experience.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Swansea University
- Department/Faculty: School of Law, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Supervisor: Dr Mike Harrison / Dr Emma Nishio
- Location: Swansea, United Kingdom
- Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
- Duration: 3.5 – 4.5 years full-time
- Funding: Full scholarship covering tuition fees, annual tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), and Research Training Support Grant
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Honours degree (1st or upper 2nd class) or Master’s from a UK academic research organisation
Research Focus / Area
- Law and Criminology
- Youth Justice Policy and Criminality
- Cybercrime and Terrorism
- Human Rights and Social Justice
- Socio-Legal and Interdisciplinary Research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Law, Criminology, or Social Sciences
- IELTS 6.5 overall (with no component below 6.5) or equivalent English proficiency
Preferred Qualifications: - Research experience in law or criminology
- Strong academic record and analytical skills
- Knowledge of empirical research methods, data analysis, or socio-legal research
Key Features of the Program
- Structured training workshops and WGSSS residential courses
- Access to administrative and empirical research data
- Internationally collaborative research environment
- Opportunities to attend conferences and present research
- Funded 3-month Research in Practice placement in academia, policy, or civil society
Application Process
How to Apply:
Complete the Swansea University online application and follow the instructions for the RS892 studentship.
Required Documents:
- WGSSS Studentship Application Form 2026
- CV
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Two academic or professional references
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Confirmation of EDI monitoring form submission
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 11 December 2025
- Interviews (if applicable): Short-listed candidates will be invited
Where to Apply
- University Website: Swansea University
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: click here
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
