ESRC DTP

Cardiff Business School at Cardiff University is offering a fully funded Wales Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) studentship in Economics, commencing October 2026. Supported by the Welsh Government, this collaborative PhD project aims to investigate the sustained rise in economic inactivity in Wales since COVID-19, with a particular focus on long-term health conditions and their impact on labour supply, economic growth, service demand, and public finances. The research is highly relevant to current UK and Welsh Government policy, including employability support and health-and-work interventions.

The project will utilize large-scale secondary microdata to analyze how and why economic inactivity has increased in Wales, compare trends with other UK regions, and identify key mechanisms affecting different groups and places. The student will have the opportunity to refine the conceptual focus, select research questions, and develop the empirical strategy in collaboration with Cardiff University supervisors and Welsh Government partners. Potential research questions include: changes in inactivity across demographic groups, the role of long-term sickness and mental health, transitions into and out of inactivity, and the influence of occupation, industry, household factors, and local context.

The studentship is designed to make an original academic contribution to labour economics and health economics literature, while producing policy-relevant insights for Wales. Extensions may include deeper analysis of priority subgroups or evaluation of policy changes, subject to data availability. The project builds on recent analyses by the Office for National Statistics, Institute for Fiscal Studies, Resolution Foundation, and Office for Budgetary Responsibility.

Entry requirements include a background in Economics or closely related fields, with qualifications equivalent to a UK honours degree (first or upper second-class) or a master's. Applicants with non-traditional academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Experience or interest in large-scale microdata and labour economics is preferred. The duration of study ranges from 3.5 to 4 years full-time (or part-time equivalent), depending on prior research experience and training needs. All WGSSS funded students must complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3 months, with opportunities in academia, policy, business, or civil society.

WGSSS studentships are open to home and international students, with up to 30% of the cohort comprising international students. International students are not charged the fee difference between UK and international rates. The ESRC studentship covers tuition fees, an annual tax-free living stipend (£20,780 for 2025-26 full-time), a Research Training Support Grant, and eligibility for Disabled Students’ Allowance. Cardiff University and WGSSS are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Assessment involves an interview, including a short presentation and panel questions. Applications must be submitted via the Cardiff University website by noon on 1st May 2026, including the WGSSS Application Form, academic CV (max two pages), two academic or professional references, degree certificates and transcripts (with translations if applicable), and proof of English language competency if relevant. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For further details and to apply, visit the project page: WGSSS ESRC DTP Studentship in Economics.