(Fully Funded) – University of Portsmouth UK PhD Scholarships

The Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures (PCMC) at the University of Portsmouth invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position starting in February 2025. This interdisciplinary research project is part of the “Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green” initiative, focusing on the port city of Callao, Peru in South America.

Available Subjects

• History
• Sociology
• Politics
• Literature
• Area Studies

PhD Opportunity at the University of Portsmouth

The Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures (PCMC) at the University of Portsmouth is offering an exciting opportunity for a fully-funded PhD, commencing in February 2025. This interdisciplinary doctoral programme is part of the first phase of the project titled “Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green: Empowering Port Communities in the Global South,” focusing specifically on the port city of Callao, Peru.

This research seeks to understand the impact of maritime technological transitions—specifically the transition from sail to steam—on coastal communities in the Global South. As the world now grapples with another profound energy transition towards decarbonisation, this project draws lessons from the past to predict and prepare for the future impacts on port communities. Supported by a visiting scholarship at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP), the PhD researcher will delve into the historical and cultural dimensions of these transitions, focusing on the maritime cultures and the resilience of local communities.

Benefits

• Financial Support: The PhD candidate will receive an annual UKRI stipend and 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, providing valuable historical data on fossil-fuelled shipping and its societal consequences.
• Community Engagement: A 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 organizing an international workshop, producing blogs, podcasts, and educational materials.

Eligible Nationalities

This scholarship is open to students of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

• A strong academic background (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.
• Proficiency in Spanish (speaking and reading) is essential.
• Willingness to collaborate with community stakeholders and travel between Portsmouth, Lima, and Callao.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should apply online before the 7th of October, 2024, quoting project code SASS9271024. Applications must include:

• A personal statement outlining your interest in the project.
• Proof of degrees and grades.
• Two academic references.
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS band 6.5 or higher).
• An up-to-date CV.

In conclusion, this PhD opportunity at the University of Portsmouth offers a unique chance to contribute to the understanding of historical and future energy transitions within maritime communities in the Global South. By focusing on the port city of Callao, Peru, this project will explore the human dimensions of technological change, providing critical insights into how coastal communities adapt to shifts from fossil fuels to green energy. This research not only deepens historical knowledge but also fosters community engagement and real-world impact, aligning with global efforts toward sustainable maritime futures.