Overview
The University of Aberdeen Business School is offering up to three Graduate Academic Assistant (GAA)/PhD studentships for talented and highly motivated graduates interested in pursuing doctoral studies in the fields of Accountancy, Business Management, Economics, Finance, and Real Estate. The Business School is renowned for its high rankings and research excellence, and the GAA/PhD studentships are designed to support students in developing both their academic research and teaching skills.
Key Details
Qualification Type: PhD
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Funding for: UK Students
Funding Amount: Full fee waiver + £6600 annual living allowance
Hours: Full-time (Minimum 10 hours per week paid academic work)
Application Deadline: 4th February 2025
What We Offer
- Full-time Study: The studentships are for three years, beginning 1st September 2025 and ending on 31st August 2028.
- Financial Support: The studentships offer a full fee waiver for tuition and an annual living allowance of £6600 to help cover living expenses.
- Paid Academic Work: In addition to the stipend, successful candidates will have the opportunity to undertake paid work (10-20 hours per week) related to academic activities, including assisting with teaching, marking, research, and administrative duties for undergraduate programs within the Business School.
- Skills Development: You will have access to various resources and training to help you succeed in your PhD journey, including research training, teaching development, and guidance from experienced academic staff.
- Collaborative Environment: The PhD students will actively engage in the vibrant research and teaching community of the Business School, which includes a wide range of academic disciplines and fields. You will be encouraged to collaborate with faculty and fellow PhD students, participate in research seminars, workshops, and conferences, and contribute to the academic life of the Business School.
- Career Development: In addition to research and teaching, the GAA/PhD students will receive career development support to help them build a future academic career and become part of a global network of scholars.
Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Qualifications: Candidates should have at least the equivalent of a Merit (2:1 minimum 65% average) in a relevant MSc course, and a strong grade in their MSc dissertation. For international students, a GPA of 3.5 – 4 or equivalent will also be considered.
- Research Proposal: Applicants are required to submit a carefully thought-out research proposal with a clear research question that fits within one of the Business School’s disciplines. Candidates should align their research proposal with the expertise of potential supervisors within the school.
- Language Requirements: Non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
- Research Fit: The proposed research must align with the Business School’s areas of research excellence and the specific disciplines offered. Staff research interests and expertise are available on the Business School’s website to guide applicants in finding a suitable supervisor.
Application Process
- Research Proposal: Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal that clearly outlines the proposed research area and questions. The proposal should align with the interests of two potential supervisors.
- Personal Statement: A personal statement of up to one A4 page, highlighting the candidate’s academic background, motivation for pursuing the PhD, and how their research interests align with the Business School.
- Application Materials:
- Up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of relevant academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two references, ideally academic, but professional references may also be considered.
- Evidence of English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent).
- Submit the Application: Applications should be submitted via the online application form on the University of Aberdeen’s official website. All applications must be received by 4th February 2025.
- Interviews: All shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
Additional Information
- Open to Current Offer Holders: This scholarship is also open to applicants who have already received an offer to start their studies in September 2025 at the University of Aberdeen Business School.
- Highly Competitive: This is a highly competitive scholarship, and selection will be based on the academic excellence of applicants. The final decision will be based on research potential, alignment with faculty research areas, and overall academic promise.
- Annual Progression Review: All PhD students undergo an annual progression review to ensure satisfactory progress in their research projects. Continued funding is contingent on meeting these progress standards.
Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Aberdeen values diversity and encourages applicants from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. The Business School recognizes the importance of fostering a diverse academic community and welcomes applications from all equality-protected groups.
Contact Information
For more details about the PhD studentships and to apply, please visit the University of Aberdeen’s application portal.
If you have any questions, please contact the Business School at [email protected].Application Deadline: 4th February 2025. Visit the official website for more information and to apply!