We are pleased to be awarding a new doctoral studentship based within the School of Law that will support a postgraduate researcher pursuing research in law and social justice. The studentship is one of six associated with the AHRC-funded Centre for People’s Justice, a coalition of more than 45 organisations from community, business, philanthropic, cultural, artistic, charitable, legal, government and university sectors. The Centre works across the UK, and in partnership with the Universities of Liverpool, Sheffield, Glasgow, Swansea, Wrexham, Ulster and the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies London.
One full home PhD studentship is available at the University of Sheffield for a candidate commencing their PhD studies in October 2026. The 3-year studentship will consist of payment of home student tuition fees and a maintenance stipend at the UKRI rate (£21,805 from 1st October 2026).
The successful applicant will be part of the Centre for People’s Justice (CPJ). The Centre’s work seeks to connect the public more closely with the ways in which the law is made, improve accountability for how the law is put into practice, and enhance people’s understanding and use of their legal rights.
Applications for the studentship at the University of Sheffield are welcomed in the area of crime and justice, and in particular projects that relate to: children (including child victims); visions of justice; legitimacy and trust; therapeutic jurisprudence; community engagement and involvement in criminal justice processes; and other/alternative social and institutional responses to crime. Other areas of criminology and children’s rights may be considered. Projects that are inter-disciplinary (particularly those engaging arts and humanities subject areas) and/or employ arts and humanities methods are especially welcome. Project proposals must demonstrate an alignment with the Centre’s aims and values.
Full details, including how to apply, can be found here. The deadline is 30th June 2026. Any interested applicants can email Professor Kathryn Hollingsworth for further information and an informal chat.