Two Fully Funded PhD Studentships in Politics at the University of Sussex
The University of Sussex is inviting applications for two fully funded PhD studentships in the Politics department as part of the NEWREPUBLIC project. NEWREPUBLIC is an ambitious European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant program that investigates the ideas and dynamics that drive anti-autocratic movements around the world. The 2026 entry provides a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers to contribute to cutting-edge scholarship while benefiting from strong doctoral training and financial support.
About the NEWREPUBLIC Project
NEWREPUBLIC aims to understand how anti-autocratic movements articulate political visions, mobilize supporters, and challenge entrenched regimes. The project blends political theory, comparative politics, and empirical methods to explore the ideational and organizational dimensions of dissent in diverse contexts. PhD researchers will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary team and work on topics that connect political ideas with real-world activism and institutional change.
Research Areas and Topics
While the specific PhD topics will be shaped through supervisor expertise and applicant interests, suitable areas include:
- Ideology, narratives, and political imaginaries in anti-autocratic movements
- Strategies of mobilization, protest governance, and collective action
- Transnational influences on democratic resilience and autocracy resistance
- Comparative case studies of movements across regions or periods
- Digital activism, information flows, and the role of social media in dissent
Successful candidates will contribute to theoretical debates about democracy, power, and political change, while conducting rigorous empirical research that can inform policy and public understanding.
What the Studentships Include
The two PhD positions are fully funded, covering tuition, a stipend, and research expenses for the duration of the doctoral program. In addition to financial support, students will receive:
- Structured doctoral training and mentorship
- Opportunities to collaborate with ERC project researchers and visiting scholars
- Access to Sussex’s research facilities, libraries, and networks
- Professional development in teaching, dissemination, and outreach
Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants should have a strong academic background in politics, political theory, international relations, or a related field. Competitive applicants will demonstrate clear research interests aligned with the NEWREPUBLIC project goals and show potential for innovative scholarship. Prior research experience or methodological training (qualitative and/or quantitative) is advantageous.
Applications typically require a research proposal outlining the intended PhD project, a CV, academic transcripts, and two references. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and may be asked to discuss their methodological approach and its fit with the NEWREPUBLIC research framework. The exact application deadline and review criteria are published by the Sussex Politics department; prospective applicants should consult the official announcement for precise dates.
Why Choose Sussex for Your PhD
The University of Sussex has a strong reputation in political science for rigorous research, international collaboration, and supportive doctoral training. Joining the NEWREPUBLIC project gives PhD students access to a network of scholars focused on anti-autocratic movements, comparative politics, and democratic resilience. The combination of a stimulating academic environment and ERC-backed research funding makes this a compelling pathway for aspiring political scientists.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should monitor the University of Sussex’s official vacancies and the NEWREPUBLIC project page for the latest application instructions, eligibility specifics, and deadlines. Preparing a well-focused research proposal that clearly links to the themes of anti-autocratic movements and the ERC project will strengthen an application. Candidates are encouraged to reach out to potential supervisors in the Politics department to discuss research ideas before applying.
Key Dates and Next Steps
Check the department’s announcements for the 2026 entry timeline, required documents, and submission windows. Early preparation of a concise research plan, a strong academic record, and letters of support can improve the chances of securing one of these prestigious fully funded PhD positions.
