UKRI

Sheffield Hallam University invites applications for a fully funded PhD Scholarship in the Centre for Collaboration in Community Connectedness (C4), commencing 1 October 2026. This unique opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about building strong, cohesive, and resilient communities, and committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion through local community or social action. The C4 Centre, funded by UKRI, is a major initiative involving academic, community, and policy partners, and is dedicated to generating evidence about effective participation and connectedness in diverse social, economic, and cultural contexts.

The PhD project, supervised by Professor Ian Wilson, will investigate how social capital and sense of community emerge, evolve, and are sustained within new housing developments, particularly in the context of the UK Government’s priority to increase housing supply. The research will use a mixed methods approach to explore the formation of social networks, trust, and collective identity among residents in newly built developments, aiming to inform planning policy and housing delivery models that foster thriving, socially cohesive communities. Projects with a focus on advanced quantitative methods, artificial intelligence, and digital inclusion are especially encouraged.

Students will join a vibrant PhD community across the University, benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration, and have access to the ESRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership. The scholarship covers home tuition fees and provides an annual stipend of £21,393 for three and a half years (pro-rata part-time). Only one bursary is available, awarded to the strongest candidate.

Applicants must hold a strong, relevant undergraduate degree (2.1 minimum) and/or a relevant master’s qualification (merit minimum). International students must demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0 overall, no component below 6.5, or equivalent), unless exempt. Required application materials include a research proposal (max 1,500 words), a personal statement addressing four specific questions, academic transcripts, details of two referees, and proof of identity and visas if applicable. Applicants must live within a reasonable distance of the University while in receipt of the scholarship.

The application deadline is 17:00 (GMT+1) on 1 May 2026. Interviews will be held in-person in late May or early June. For further information or questions, contact Professor Ian Wilson at [email protected] or the Doctoral School at [email protected]. For more details and to apply, visit the project page linked below.