PhD Position: Responder-Perpetrated Sexual Exploitation and Abuse in Humanitarian Crises

This funded PhD position at the University of Birmingham offers an exceptional opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary, international research collaboration focused on responder-perpetrated sexual exploitation and abuse (RP-SEA) in humanitarian crises. The RESPONDER Partnership addresses critical evidence and policy gaps in contexts such as Haiti, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, Kosovo, and the Central African Republic. The research employs mixed-methods, including respondent-driven sampling, sensemaking, and participatory qualitative approaches, aiming to estimate the scale of RP-SEA, strengthen survivor-centred justice, and transform institutional cultures within the humanitarian sector. The partnership is co-led by Dr. Susan Bartels (Queen’s University) and Professor Sabine Lee (University of Birmingham), with the successful candidate supervised by Professor Lee and co-supervision from an international collaborator within the RESPONDER network. The doctoral research may focus on survivor- and community-centred approaches to justice and accountability, intersectional analysis of gender, disability, and power within humanitarian systems, estimation of RP-SEA prevalence in selected contexts, and participatory or sensemaking methodologies in fragile and conflict-affected settings. The PhD student will contribute to analytical components of the RESPONDER Partnership study, participate in international collaborations, and have opportunities for travel, including trainee workshops. There is scope to develop complementary dissertation research within the broader RP-SEA objectives. Funding includes full tuition fees and a stipend of approximately £10,500 per year for four years, with additional support for placements, training, and research expenses provided by the SSHRC grant. Eligibility requires a Masters degree in a relevant field (Global Public Health, Gender Studies, Political Science, Humanitarian Studies, or related disciplines), demonstrated interest or experience in gender-based violence, humanitarian response, human rights, or social justice, strong qualitative and/or quantitative research skills, and openness to participatory and interdisciplinary approaches. Excellent English communication skills are essential; proficiency in French or other relevant languages is an asset. Candidates should be comfortable collaborating with diverse partners and communities, demonstrating cultural humility and respect for different perspectives. To apply, submit a cover letter, CV (with two referees), writing sample, research proposal, and transcript of grades to [email protected] by 16 March 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in late April or early May 2026, with references requested at that stage. For further details, visit the project page: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/responder-perpetrated-sexual-exploitation-and-abuse-in-humanitarian-crises/?p194665