PhD opportunities in Politics, International Relations and History at Brunel University London

Become a part of our network of researchers and scholars, advising policymakers. 100% of our Politics/History research impact is world-leading or globally excellent (REF).

Politics and History are by their very nature inherently interdisciplinary areas. Work with us across disciplines as a central part of our research strategy and helps us to produce innovative and outstanding research. We will empower you to achieve your goals in your area through participation in a range of interdisciplinary Research Centre and Research Groups, and through a collaboration with scholars at other universities and organisations nationally and internationally. 

By joining our community you will create an impact for your research through extensive networks involving other researchers and scholars, engagement with civil society actors and by contributing to the advice we provide to the policymakers. you will be supervised by members of staff who serve on the councils of scholarly bodies and act as panel members for a range of funding bodies, including the ESRC, AHRC, British Academy and Royal Historical Society.

Join our research areas:

Politics and International Relations at Brunel has established a substantial body of cutting-edge research across broad themes such as: the history of political thought with a special interest in theories of violence and revolution; the political structures and processes of advanced capitalist states, especially Britain, the US, Asia, countries within the EU, and the EU itself; intelligence and security studies with a key focus on the institutions and processes of intelligence gathering; war and conflict including military history from the ancient to the modern period, counterinsurgency, peacebuilding, and border conflict; and international relations, including specialisms in the modern Middle East and the politics of intervention. 

Comparative Politics, Public Policy and Political Thought

Channel your passion for cutting-edge research into transforming institutions, public policy, elections, and public opinion.

Intelligence and Security Studies

Conduct interdisciplinary research dealing with issues such as intelligence issues, policy and institutions, to promote and develop social science and policy-oriented approaches to intelligence

Just Societies

Analyse how best to create and maintain just societies that fairly balance both personal freedom and authority, and the rights and responsibilities of individuals and society.

International History

Focus on the fundamental role that identity plays in the modern age, including gender, religious, ethnic and national identity, and the role of boundaries in demarcating collective identities. Conduct work that is highly relevant to analyses of contemporary conflict, and contribute a historical perspective to studies of conflict over borders or ethnicity.

International Relations

Focus on vital international problems like security and intelligence, or violent conflict.

Performance, Politics and Violence

Deep dive into areas such as symbolic, mystical, and structural violence, genocide and other forms of physical violence. Examine the spectrum of power in far-reaching State, international political control all the way to the micro-politics of everyday life.

How to apply?

As a doctoral researcher, you will be welcomed to Brunel as a valued member of our thriving, research-intensive community. Browse PhD opportunities, studentship, and learn more about our research by visiting our website.

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Where is Brunel?

Brunel University London is based in Uxbridge, London – 45minutes to Central London on the Metropolitan Line – which means you have great access to the heart of this beautiful city, and yet can enjoy the safety and convenience of a suburban campus housing over 15,000 students with all you need in one place. Take a look