The University of Manchester invites applications for a fully funded PhD project titled '[PDS Award] The Future of Sex: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sexual Biology and Gender Studies.' This innovative doctoral research responds to the evolving role of 'sex' as an organising concept in the humanities, aiming to bridge insights from gender and sexuality studies with recent scientific developments in sexual biology. The project leverages the humanities' capacity to interrogate the social and cultural implications of scientific advances, such as genetic chimerism and the creation of human eggs from skin cells, to foster effective cross-disciplinary dialogue and improve healthcare models where 'sex' is a salient concept.

Central to the project is a contextualising history of the sex-gender distinction, with the broader goal of addressing social polarisation resulting from the contemporary conflation of 'sex' and 'gender' as proxies for 'nature' and 'culture.' The research will revitalise the concept of sex in the humanities by integrating perspectives from gender and sexuality studies with scientific advances that challenge or extend traditional understandings of sexual biology. The project also aims to engage seriously with the materiality of sexual biology, potentially challenging established conventions in gender studies.

The doctoral student will conduct three case studies: (1) exploring genetic chimerism, including the discovery of a woman with two sets of DNA and its implications for sexual reproduction; (2) examining the social consequences of creating viable human eggs from skin cells; and (3) investigating same-sex sexual behaviour in primates and its links to social bonding under environmental stress. The student will join a cross-Faculty research group on the Sexual Politics of Biology, collaborating with colleagues from the Centre for the Study of Sexuality and Culture, the Centre for the History of Science and Technology, and Medical Education in the Faculty of Biology. The expected thesis length is approximately 80,000 words, and the student will contribute to workshops supporting scientists in considering 'sex' and 'gender' in their research.

Applicants must have a First class Bachelor's (Honours) degree or overseas equivalent and a Master's degree in a relevant subject, with an overall average of 65% or above, a minimum mark of 65% in the dissertation, and no mark below 55%. Desirable attributes include knowledge of key conversations in gender and sexuality studies and the ability to engage with scientific developments in sex. English language proficiency is required (IELTS 7.0 overall and 7.0 in writing, TOEFL 100 overall and 25 in all sections, or Pearson Test of English 76 overall and 76 in writing). Degrees from a majority English-speaking nation within the last 5 years may be accepted.

The President’s Doctoral Scholar Award provides full funding for tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate, plus a £1,000 stipend enhancement for 3.5 years starting in September 2026. Candidates must cover relocation and associated costs (e.g., visa, health surcharges). The application deadline is March 18, 2026. Interviews are expected in May 2026.

To apply, submit your application online for PhD English and American Studies. Select 'Yes' for advertised project, enter the project title, and manually input the supervisor's name. Indicate your intention to apply for the PDS Award in the funding section. Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, CV, supporting statement, and writing sample. Nominate two academic referees. A PhD proposal is not required. For further information, contact Professor Jackie Stacey at [email protected] or visit the project webpage.