Sheffield Hallam University - Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) Scholarship in the Sheffield Business School: Understanding how small medium enterprises manage political risk in foreign markets Sheffield Hallam University in United Kingdom

Applications are invited for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) PhD scholarships in the Sheffield Business School, commencing 1 October 2025.

The GTA scholarship scheme aims to develop highly skilled postgraduate researchers with further information on the University’s PhD scholarships available in the Conditions of Award document.

Sheffield Business School

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Project title: Understanding how small medium enterprises manage political risk in foreign markets

International business operates in an increasingly unstable political environment, prompting scholars to examine how companies manage political risk. While small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the economy and are prominent in international markets, most research and practitioner knowledge focuses on large multinational enterprises. This narrow focus is concerning because SMEs face higher risk exposure than large companies, making their risk management approach critical for survival and growth. This research aims to understand how SMEs manage political risk in foreign markets. Drawing on evidence from SMEs, the research will identify the specific strategies and tools these enterprises use to manage political risk. The research will also examine how institutional factors and internal resources influence the selection and effectiveness of SMEs' risk management approaches. Ultimately, this research will provide practical guidelines to help SMEs navigate political volatility.

Supervisors: Dr Martin Owens, Dr Ahmed Tantawy

If you are interested in this project, and would like to discuss your ideas, please contact Dr Martin Owens ( [email protected] ).

GTA scholarships are open to Home, EU and International applicants . The scholarship is for three and a half years full-time study (pro-rata part time) and covers PhD fees and pays an annual stipend at the living wage foundation rate of £20,974 per year in the academic year 24/25.

To apply you need to meet our entry requirements and provide:

·      A complete online application form for the October 2025 intake, available here . This includes:

·      A research proposal . Maximum word count: 1,500 words.

· A personal statement . We want to learn more about you. In the personal statement you must answer these four questions. Please include the title of the project you are applying for in the Personal Statement section of the application form. We recommend no more than 200 words for each question and including specific examples from your previous experiences (academic and professional):

1.    What relevant skills and experience do you have which you feel would help you undertake this research project?

2.    How did you come up with your project proposal?

3.    What opportunities do you think the doctorate will give you?

4.    Provide an example demonstrating your approach to engaging with new experiences or ideas. This can be an example from your studies, work, or personal experiences.

· Copies of qualifications, certificates, and results transcripts (All applicants should hold a strong, relevant undergraduate degree (2.1 minimum) and/or a relevant master’s qualification (merit minimum)).

· Details of two referees who can comment on your academic ability and readiness for PhD study.

· Copies of your passport and any relevant visas.

International Students

International students* will be required to demonstrate their English language proficiency through:

1. Recent academic IELTS demonstrating an overall score of 7.0 or above with no score below 6.5 in the other components or equivalent. Recent means that your IELTS results must have been awarded two years preceding your doctoral programme's start date; or

2. Educated with a UK Master's degree level (merit minimum) within two years preceding your doctoral programme's start date.

* UKVI provide a list of countries exempt from the language entry requirements. If you're a national of one of these countries, you won't need to provide evidence as listed above.

For further information regarding our entry requirements, please visit the course page .

Applicants must live within a reasonable distance of the University, whilst in receipt of the scholarship.

Closing date for applications: 12 noon (BST) on Wednesday 23 ^rd April 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

Interviews will take place during the week commencing 2 ^nd June.

Please e-mail [email protected] if you have any questions.