Manchester Metropolitan University
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PhD Studentship - (Re)claiming and (Re)shaping Place: The Economics and Geography of Women’s Football Stadiums Manchester Metropolitan University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Sports Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Feb 28, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
Manchester Metropolitan University
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About this position
Manchester Metropolitan University is offering a funded PhD studentship in the Faculty of Business and Law on (Re)claiming and (Re)shaping Place: The Economics and Geography of Women’s Football Stadiums.
This project examines how stadium infrastructure arrangements shape the development of women’s football and the places where the game is experienced. Using comparative case studies and mixed methods, the research will explore how stadiums influence supporter attachment, identity, legitimacy, attendance, and economic outcomes. It sits at the intersection of human geography, sport economics, sport management, and women’s football research, with a strong emphasis on placemaking and evidence-based policy.
The project’s objectives are to develop a conceptual framework for stadium infrastructure and placemaking in women’s football; assess how different infrastructure arrangements affect attachment, identity, and legitimacy; investigate links between placemaking, supporter attachment, and socioeconomic outcomes such as attendance and supporter spending; and provide recommendations for clubs, governing bodies, and policymakers.
Funding is available for both home and international applicants. Home and international tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the 3-year award, and the student will receive a standard UKRI stipend, currently £21,805 for the 2026/27 academic year.
Applicants should be intellectually curious, proactive, organised, and comfortable working across disciplines. The project seeks candidates with potential or experience in quantitative research, advanced statistical methods, qualitative interviewing, qualitative analysis, and documentary analysis. Background knowledge of women’s football, professional football structures, or the commercial and organisational development of women’s sport would be advantageous. A relevant background in human geography, sport management, sports economics, or a related field is preferred.
To apply, complete the online application for a full-time PhD in People & Performance. No research proposal is required at the portal stage. Applicants should complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form and submit a CV and covering letter explaining how their experience matches the project. Documents can be uploaded via the University’s Admissions Portal or emailed to [email protected]. The contact supervisor is Dr. Maurizio Valenti ([email protected]).
Expected start date: October 2027. Application deadline: 2 February 2027 (normalised from the advert’s month-day format).
Funding details
Available
What's required
The successful candidate should be intellectually curious, proactive, organised, and comfortable working across disciplinary boundaries. Applicants should have an ability or willingness to develop quantitative and analytical skills in collecting, managing, and analysing quantitative data using advanced statistical methods, as well as qualitative research skills in conducting semi-structured interviews, analysing qualitative data, and undertaking documentary analysis. Knowledge of women’s football, professional football structures, or the commercial and organisational development of women's sport would be an asset. A relevant academic background in human geography, sport management, sports economics, or a closely related discipline is ideally expected.
How to apply
Complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in People & Performance. Do not submit a research proposal through the portal. Complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form and upload your CV and covering letter in the Admissions Portal, or email them to [email protected]. Quote reference FoBL-MV-2027-28-Women’s football stadiums.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the provider.