Social Science: Economic and Social History
We are looking for a potential PhD student interested in completing a thesis studying twentieth-century Scottish and British history. The candidate will demonstrate familiarity in working with primary sources using qualitative research methods. Whilst preferred, a postgraduate qualification is not required. The award includes funding for a 1+3 award (Master’s year and 3 years for the PhD) , meaning that students could receive postgraduate training on a funded basis with an annual stipend as part of their scholarship.
Fair Trade’s growing prominence in Scotland since the 1980s is an important example of how business and conceptions of social justice link with one another. This studentship will investigate the major questions about the ethics of consumption in capitalist societies which Fair Trade raises by linking concerns about conditions of production to just pricing and the exchange of products in global markets to varied localised settings across Scotland. We are seeking a candidate with relevant history or social science qualitative research expertise and a background in studying themes relating to social movements and activism, business and trade practices and/or twentieth century Scottish history. Experience with public engagement activities would be beneficial but is not required.
In this project, oral history interviews with important figures from the Scottish Fair Trade Forum and research using the Forum’s privately held archive and the collections of its members, will be combined with interviews with individuals from businesses, community and faith groups that the Forum engages with, and Fair Trade customer survey data. The outcomes are orientated towards public engagement, using the Forum’s history to inform discussions on what Fair Trade means in the context of continuing economic inequalities and mounting concerns over the role of international trade in climate change.
Eligibility
Please note: As SGSSS has reached the international cap set by ESRC (30% of awards), this opportunity is only open to 'home' students.
An undergraduate degree at a first or upper second class level or equivalent qualification and experience, or a masters in history or a relevant social science discipline.
Knowledge of scholarship and academic debates in relevant subjects such as Fair Trade, business practices and activism, trade policy making and contemporary Scottish history.
Relevant skills in either archival research or oral history interviewing.
Please note that all applicants must also meet the ESRC eligibility criteria ('home' students only). ESRC eligibility information can be found here.
For full details and to apply for this studentship, please visit the Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) website here.
Selection Process
Applications will be ranked by an internal institutional selection panel and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted for interview on or around 11 July 2022. Interviews will take place on 26 July 2022.
This studentship award is subject to the successful candidate securing admission to a PhD programme within the University of Glasgow, School of Social and Political Sciences. The successful candidate will be invited to apply for admission to the relevant PhD programme.