About the Project
Applications are invited for a 4-year ESRC Targeted PhD studentship in the area of Computational Social Science, with a focus on using social media data to map geographical variation in psychological phenomena. The studentship would start in October 2018 at the Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge. The successful candidate will conduct research under the supervision of Dr Jason Rentfrow and also in collaboration with Dr Daniele Quercia in the Social Dynamics Lab at Nokia Bell Labs Cambridge.
The proliferation of online social media has produced massive amounts of user-generated data, wherein users post statements or upload photos that contain information about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Much of this data is geo-tagged, which makes it possible to explore how the content varies across regions and cities. Such information can potentially be useful for investigating geographical variation in a range of social and psychological processes. The aim of this project is to bridge theory and methods in the social and computational sciences to evaluate the validity and potential value of social media data for inferring psychological phenomena. To that end, the student will receive training in psychological assessment, computer programming, computational modelling, and methods for harvesting data from social media. From this skillset, the student will be able to make use of large-scale survey-based datasets with geographical information and combine them with geo-tagged social media data to begin investigating questions about the psychological characteristics of user-generated online social media content.
For the first year, the student will participate in an MPhil in Biological Science (Psychology) and will complete a research project. In subsequent year, the student will commence their PhD research in the area of Computational Social Science.
Eligibility and Funding:
Candidates should have a first or upper second class degree in psychology, computer science, engineering, geography, or mathematics and meet the University of Cambridge entrance requirements - see: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/entry-requirements
All applicants must meet the ESRC funding eligibility requirements outlined at:
http://www.esrc.ac.uk/skills-and-careers/studentships/prospective-students/am-i-eligible-for-an-esrc-studentship/
UK and EU students who meet the UK residency requirements will be eligible for a full studentship, which includes University and College fees as well as an annual stipend at UK Research Council rates (TBC). Students from EU countries who do not meet the residency requirements may still be eligible for a fees-only award.
Informal enquiries about the project may be made to Dr Jason Rentfrow ([Email Address Removed]).
Application process:
To apply please complete the University GRADSAF application form by Wednesday 6 December 2017. The course code is BLPCM1 (MPhil in Biological Science (Psychology).
https://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/how-do-i-apply
With your GRADSAF application you will be required to submit (i) a draft research proposal outlining your suitability, why you are interested in pursuing a MPhil and PhD in this area, your background and research interests. (ii) your CV stating your citizenship and years of residence in the UK (iii) copies of your academic transcripts (iv) details of two academic referees.
Please inform Mrs Dawn Ellis ([Email Address Removed]) when you have made an application, please add ‘Knowledge Exchange Studentship (KES)’ to the subject line of your e-mail.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview within two weeks from the application deadline.
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