PhD in Sociology: Meritocracy as Political Culture – Comparative Analysis of Structures, Attitudes, and Meanings
Trinity College Dublin, Ireland’s leading university and ranked 75th globally (QS 2026), invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Sociology. The successful candidate will join the Department of Sociology for a 48-month doctoral programme, working on the project ‘Meritocracy as Political Culture: A Comparative Analysis of Structures, Attitudes, and Meanings.’
This innovative research explores meritocracy as a dynamic political culture, investigating how it responds to structural changes and shapes political attitudes. The project addresses the paradox of meritocratic beliefs: while promoting equality of opportunity, they may also legitimize social inequalities and reinforce individual responsibility. Recent developments in the US and Europe highlight the fragility of meritocratic ideals, with growing gaps between ideals and lived experiences potentially undermining trust in institutions and fueling political discontent, including anti-elite and exclusionary attitudes.
The PhD research will employ a mixed-methods approach, utilizing cross-national macrolevel data to analyze the emergence and intensification of meritocratic culture, and survey data to examine links between meritocratic climates and exclusionary attitudes (such as anti-immigrant and anti-minority sentiments). Qualitative interviews in Ireland and South Korea will further explore how individuals interpret meritocracy in different contexts.
Trinity College Dublin is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, non-traditional career paths, or who have experienced displacement. The university is an EU Sustainable Gender Equality Champion and holds an Athena Swan Silver Award.
Funding:
The position is fully funded for 48 months.
Eligibility:
Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in a relevant social science, demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills, and provide a sample of written work in English. No specific language test or GPA requirements are mentioned.
Application deadline:
1 May 2026 (23:00 GMT).
How to apply:
Submit a motivation letter, CV, research statement, contact details for two referees, a sample of written work, and official transcripts by email to Dr Joonghyun Kwak. Indicate 'PhD Application in Sociology' in the subject line. Informal enquiries are welcome.
