Centre for Contemporary Political Theory

CCPT offers a vibrant and supportive environment for doctoral research. The Centre’s broad-ranging and inclusive approach to the study of political theory means that we can offer supervision in a very wide range of subject areas across ancient and modern political thought, contemporary political philosophy, and critical and continental political theory. Take a look at our staff pages to see who you can work with and for a sense of the range of topics on which we offer supervision.

Our postgraduate researchers play an active role in our research community, both organising and participating in research events and activities. Our annual PGR conference in political theory and our White Rose Political Theory network with researchers at the Universities of Sheffield and York make CCPT an ideal base for doctoral study. Our reading group, work-in-progress seminars, pitch-to-peers lunches and professional development events foster a collegial, supportive and collaborative research culture. We also nurture interdisciplinary links with several other researchers across the University, including scholars working in international relations, law, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, and languages.

PhD Study in Political Theory

We welcome PhD applications and encourage potential applicants to get in touch at any time for further information or an informal chat about the application process, potential supervisors, and funding opportunities.

General information about postgraduate research in POLIS including entry requirements, how to apply, and how to prepare a research proposal is available here. 

The Centre actively supports applicants in securing PhD funding, so please contact us to discuss the options. Here we list some of the major funding opportunities for PhD research in political theory at the University of Leeds:

PhD Scholarship Information - Student-Led Postgraduate Research Scholarships

•    ESRC WRDTP (open to UK and International)
•    AHRC WRCoAH (open to UK and International)
•    Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (UK only) 
•    POLIS Scholarships - Politics of Global Challenges Doctoral Scholarship (UK), Politics of Global Challenges International Doctoral Scholarship (International)
•    Faculty of Social Sciences scholarships for applicants from UK Black, Asian and underrepresented ethnic minority communities

All of the above include full fees and maintenance 

Other notable scholarships

China Scholarship Council – University of Leeds, Frank Stell scholarship (Yorkshire residents)

You can also search at https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/ for all active PhD funding opportunities at the University of Leeds.