Fully Funded PhD in Informal Entrepreneurship and Development at Loughborough University Loughborough University in United Kingdom

Loughborough University - Loughborough Business School is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on 'Informal Entrepreneurship and Capability Expansion: Establishing Pathways Beyond Income in Developing Countries.' This research opportunity aims to bridge the fields of entrepreneurship and development studies by investigating how informal ventures in developing economies contribute to alleviating multidimensional poverty, not just through income generation but also by expanding capabilities in health, education, and living standards.

The project will employ qualitative research methods, including in-depth case studies and context analysis, to document the mechanisms by which informal entrepreneurship addresses various forms of deprivation. The research will produce a theoretical framework integrating capability perspectives with informal entrepreneurship, empirical evidence of impact pathways in resource-constrained contexts, and a practical typology for development agencies. These outputs are designed to meet the needs of organizations such as the UNDP and World Bank for improved assessment tools for entrepreneurship interventions.

The primary supervisor is Sue-Young Park, with Michelle Richey as the secondary supervisor, both affiliated with Loughborough University. Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) and a UK master's degree with an average mark of no less than 65%, and must meet the university's English language requirements. The studentship provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for three years, plus full tuition fees, subject to final university approval.

To apply, candidates should submit an online application through the Loughborough University research applications portal, ensuring all required documents are included. For further details, applicants can contact the primary supervisor at [email protected]. Relevant academic keywords include informal entrepreneurship, development studies, capability expansion, poverty alleviation, and qualitative research in developing countries.