University of Portsmouth Fully Funded PhD Scholarship 2025 UK
Program Details:
- Degree Level: PhD
- Field of Study: History, Sociology, Politics, Literature, Area Studies
- Eligibility: International and Domestic Students
- Location: United Kingdom
- Application Deadline: October 6, 2024
Overview of the University of Portsmouth UK PhD Scholarships
The Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures (PCMC) at the University of Portsmouth is pleased to announce a fully-funded PhD position available for applicants starting in February 2025. This exciting interdisciplinary research project is part of the “Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green” initiative, which centers around the port city of Callao, Peru.
Project Overview
This research project aims to explore the historical and cultural impacts of maritime technological transitions on coastal communities in the Global South. By investigating the transition from sail to steam in the 19th century, the study seeks to provide valuable insights into how these communities are adapting to the ongoing shift towards decarbonization.
Key Research Questions
- Impact of Technological Transition:
How did the transition from sail to steam affect the social, cultural, and environmental landscape of Callao, Peru? - Lessons from History:
What lessons can be drawn from historical transitions to better understand and prepare for the current energy transition’s impacts on coastal communities? - Informing Sustainable Strategies:
How can historical perspectives guide strategies for sustainable development and resilience in port cities?
Project Benefits
- Fully-Funded PhD:
Receive comprehensive financial support covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs. - Interdisciplinary Research:
Collaborate with a diverse team of experts from various fields, including history, geography, sociology, and environmental studies. - International Experience:
Gain valuable experience through a visiting scholarship at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP). - Contribution to Global Knowledge:
Engage in meaningful research that adds to the understanding of the history and future of port cities and maritime cultures.
Degree Level:
This scholarship is available for PhD-level programs at the University of Portsmouth.
Available Subjects
The following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program:
- History
- Sociology
- Politics
- Literature
- Area Studies
- Research Focus: From Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green: Empowering Port Communities in the Global South (Peru)
PhD Opportunity at the University of Portsmouth
The Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures (PCMC) at the University of Portsmouth is excited to offer a fully-funded PhD opportunity commencing in February 2025. This interdisciplinary doctoral program is part of the first phase of the project titled “Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green: Empowering Port Communities in the Global South,” with a particular focus on the port city of Callao, Peru.
Research Overview
This research aims to investigate the impact of maritime technological transitions—specifically, the shift from sail to steam—on coastal communities in the Global South. As the world faces a significant energy transition towards decarbonization, this project seeks to draw lessons from historical transitions to better predict and prepare for future impacts on port communities.
Supported by a visiting scholarship at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP), the PhD researcher will explore the historical and cultural dimensions of these transitions, emphasizing maritime cultures and the resilience of local communities.
Project Details
The primary focus of this research is to examine the social, cultural, and environmental effects of the 19th-century transition from sail to steam within the context of maritime technological change. It will compare the heritage and attitudes of communities in the Global South, particularly in Callao, a vital international seaport. The research aims to provide insights into the historical transformations experienced by these communities and evaluate their readiness to adapt to the shift toward green energy in the 21st century.
Alignment with Global Initiatives
This project aligns with UNESCO’s ‘Ocean Decade (2021-2031)’ initiative, which promotes a more holistic understanding of how human communities interact with their maritime environments. While climate change science has largely dominated discussions, this project emphasizes the importance of integrating human experiences, giving a voice to historically marginalized communities.
Benefits
Financial Support
The PhD candidate will receive an annual UKRI stipend, along with a generous travel bursary to support research activities both domestically and internationally, particularly in Callao, Peru.
Access to Resources
The candidate will have access to the Lloyd’s Register Foundation (LRF) maritime archive, which offers valuable historical data on fossil-fueled shipping and its societal consequences.
Community Engagement
A dedicated community engagement fund will enable the candidate to collaborate with local communities and produce impactful research outputs.
Scholarly Dissemination
The candidate will gain experience in scholarly dissemination, including the organization of an international workshop and the production of blogs, podcasts, and educational materials.
Eligible Nationalities
This scholarship is open to students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible candidates should possess:
- Academic Background:
A strong academic record (upper second class or equivalent) in History or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred, but equivalent professional experience may also be considered. - Language Proficiency:
Proficiency in Spanish (both speaking and reading) is essential. - Collaborative Spirit:
A willingness to collaborate with community stakeholders and travel between Portsmouth, Lima, and Callao.
Application Procedure
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications online by October 7, 2024, quoting project code SASS9271024. The application must include the following documents:
- Personal Statement:
A statement outlining your interest in the project. - Proof of Degrees and Grades:
Documentation verifying your academic qualifications. - Academic References:
Two academic references to support your application. - English Language Proficiency:
Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS band 6.5 or higher). - Curriculum Vitae:
An up-to-date CV detailing your academic and professional experiences.
