ESRC WGSSS studentship in Environmental Planning

The Department of Geography and Earth Sciences (DGES) at Aberystwyth University is delighted to offer fully funded Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) (ESRC DTP) studentships in the Environmental Planning Pathway starting in October 2025.   

Entry Criteria

To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equivalent to a UK honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.   

Duration of study

The duration of study varies from 3.5 to 4.5 years full time (or part time equivalent).     

The duration study is dependent on prior research experience and the training needs of the student which will be assessed by completing a Development Needs Analysis. We welcome applications for both full and part-time study.   

Research in practice placement

All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent). All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations

International Eligibility

WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.     

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.    

Assessment

Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview and answer a series of panel questions.

 

How to apply

Applications should be received no later than 11th December 2024 including all required documents. Due to the volume of applications received, incomplete applications will not be considered.    

 

All applications should be made online via the postgraduate admissions application portal:

https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/study-with-us/pg-studies/apply/#apply-online

 

Please include the following documents with your application:   

  • Academic CV (two pages maximum) 
  • 2 academic or professional references (candidates must approach referees themselves and include references with their application. The references must detail the applicant’s research strengths). 
  • Degree certificates and Transcripts (including translations if applicable)   
  • If relevant, proof of English Language Competency (see institutional requirements for entry)  

Funding

The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees, an annual tax-free living stipend of in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £19,237) and includes access to a Research Training Support Grant.    

 If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.