PhD studentship for the 2024/25 academic year

The Department of Economics at the University of St Andrews Business School represents a vital component of Scotland's oldest university, renowned across Europe as a premier institution for both research and teaching. This Department is characterized by its dynamic, research-driven environment, with faculty members engaged in pioneering and impactful research that addresses critical issues facing individuals and societies alike.

About the PhD studentship

The Department of Economics at the University of St Andrews Business School is offering a competitive PhD studentship to fund student-led projects, commencing at the end of August 2024. The studentship will comprise a stipend at UKRI level, which in the 2023/24 academic year is £18,622, and full tuition fees at UK or Overseas level for three years.

In addition, the studentship offers:

  • research funding of up to £500 per academic year to help with costs arising from research;
  • funding for travel, accommodation and conference fees to support attendance at academic conferences, including one international conference;
  • support for academic and professional development both internally with the Centre for Educational Enhancement and Development, GRADskills and University social sciences research modules and externally with the Scottish Graduate Programme in Economics;
  • paid teaching opportunities in the Business School with dedicated training and mentoring. All students funded from this call will be expected to contribute to teaching within the School, typically taking on tutoring and marking duties, to be paid separately via a graduate teaching assistantship contract.
  • opportunities to complete a Postgraduate Certificate of Academic Practice.

Exceptional graduates who wish to be considered for a funded studentship are invited to submit a PhD proposal. Applicants are strongly encouraged to align their proposal closely with the research interests of a potential supervisor to increase the chances of success. Applicants must contact a potential supervisor before submitting a PhD proposal.

The Department of Economics is situated within the Business School which was launched in September 2023 following a merger between the Schools of Economics & Finance and Management.

Successful applicants will join a vibrant international community focused on research and teaching excellence.

The University of St Andrews was ranked overall first in the UK by The Times University Guide 2024 and first by the Guardian University Guide 2024.

Who is eligible?

We welcome applications from strong candidates who can demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding research potential.

  • We require at least a Merit (60%) in an MSc course in Economics with a distinction preferred.
  • If needed, the student may be required to undertake further MSc level coursework in their first year of doctoral studies and pass with merit.
  • We expect a carefully considered research proposal with a clear research question. This should be discussed with a potential supervisor before submitting an application.
  • A qualified supervisor in the department must be willing and able to supervise the student in his or her chosen field of research.

Visit our website to find out more about potential supervision topics.

How to apply

For comprehensive information on the application process for the PhD program, please visit our detailed guide on how to apply. The application for the studentship does not require a separate procedure; simply indicate your interest in the 'Funding Source' section of the PhD application form.

To be considered for an award, it is imperative that your PhD application is fully submitted by April 15th, 2024. We welcome early submissions and assess them continuously.

The University of St Andrews is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, as evidenced by our engagement with diversity awards (ECU Athena SWAN/Race Charters, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter, and Stonewall). The former School of Economics and Finance, holding an Athena SWAN Bronze award, is deeply committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals who are underrepresented in the field of economics. Learn more about our commitment to equality and diversity.