PhD Studentship in Personal Finance, Asset Allocation, and Wealth Inequality The Open University in United Kingdom

PhD Studentship in Personal Finance, Asset Allocation & Wealth Inequality at The Open University (UK)

The Business School, Department of Accounting & Finance at The Open University is inviting applications for a PhD studentship focused on personal finance, asset allocation, and wealth inequality. This research opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in how households manage finances, the persistence of wealth gaps, and the role of generative AI in finance.

Research Areas:

• Personal financial decision-making
• Asset allocation (stocks, savings, investments)
• Role of Generative AI in finance
• Government policies & financial systems
• Wealth inequality (including gender, disability & households)

What You’ll Study:

• Why many people struggle with financial decisions
• Low stock market participation
• How financial systems benefit the wealthy
• How AI and policy can improve financial inclusion

Applicant Profile: Candidates should have a background in Finance, Economics, or a related field, with strong quantitative and econometric skills. Experience with data analysis tools (Python, R, Stata, Julia) is required. Interest in inequality, behaviour, and policy is essential. Applicants are expected to develop a strong research proposal, show knowledge of household finance literature, and understand real-world financial systems and contexts.

Why Apply? The position offers flexible study options (campus or distance learning), the chance to work on real-world issues affecting millions, and the opportunity to contribute to debates on policy, finance, and inequality.

How to Apply: Prepare your research proposal and apply via the provided link. Share this opportunity with others who may be interested.