Deborah Shaw

This fully-funded three-year PhD project at the University of Portsmouth investigates the working conditions and lived experiences of women in the screen media industries through comparative case studies. Hosted by the Faculty of Creative & Cultural Industries and supervised by Dr Susana Sampaio-Dias, Professor Deborah Shaw, and Dr Yael Friedman, the research will explore gendered hierarchies, representation, and creative control in media organisations, focusing on both the Global North and South. The project addresses persistent issues such as the 'glass ceiling,' gender pay gaps, and underrepresentation of women in senior editorial, technical, and creative roles. It also examines the impact of digital and independent media on women’s employment, highlighting challenges like precarious freelance work, harassment, and discrimination. Special attention is given to intersectional and transnational feminist perspectives, centering women’s narratives about precarity, resistance, and identity negotiation in professional media environments. Applicants will have the opportunity to conduct empirical research, including data collection with women working in media industries, comparative analysis across national contexts, and policy-oriented studies to advance gender equality in screen media. The project welcomes candidates interested in enhancing academic understanding and informing policy for gender equity in media professions. Funding includes a bursary covering tuition fees for three years, a UKRI-aligned stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), and £1,500 per annum for project costs. Please note that student visa and immigration health surcharge costs are not covered. The position is open only to new students without a previous doctoral qualification. Eligibility requires a good first degree (minimum upper second class or equivalent) or a Master’s in a relevant subject, with exceptional cases considered based on professional experience. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in Media, Gender, or Cultural Studies, familiarity with feminist media scholarship, and experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of media contexts in the Global South are highly desirable. English proficiency at IELTS 6.5 (no component below 6.0) is required. To apply, contact Dr Susana Sampaio-Dias for informal enquiries, quoting the project code. Submit your application online with a personal statement, degree transcripts, two referees, proof of English proficiency, and CV. Be sure to quote project code FMC10010126. Email applications are not accepted. For more details, visit the project page and the University’s application guidance.