PhD Studentship in Representation and Democracy Studies

Department of Government - University of Strathclyde (Glasgow)

Applications are invited for a PhD Studentship in the Department of Government. Candidates should have a particular interest in conducting research that examines aspects of political and legislative representation, either from an institutional or behavioural perspective. Topics may seek to further the existing research on legislative representation or may seek to compare ‘traditional' models of political representation with alternative models such as direct, deliberative or participatory democracy. The successful candidate may be affiliated with the Department's new Centre for Elections and Representation Studies which is to be launched in 2008.
Applicants should provide a thesis proposal (not to exceed 2,000 words) in which they identify an original research topic, place the topic within the existing literature and present a clearly articulated research design. Candidates with an interest in quantitative research and analysis are especially encouraged to apply though proposals drawing on qualitative approaches will also be considered. While research topics focusing on single country studies will be considered, proposals that include a comparative component would be particularly welcome.
The PhD studentship in Representation and Democracy Studies is available from September 2008 for three years, subject to satisfactory progress, and covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual bursary of £10,000.
Along with the thesis proposal applicants should also provide a full curriculum vitae, and the names and addresses (including email) of two academic referees.
Application closing date: 4 August 2008
For further information see:

http://www.strath.ac.uk/government/postgraduatestudents/phdstudentships20089/.