Fully Funded PhD Positions in DEVHIST: Development History in Africa and Southeast Asia

Are you interested in how international development policies affected everyday lives in Africa or Southeast Asia? A new fully funded PhD position offers a chance to explore this through original research. This opportunity comes from the DEVHIST project, led by historian Agnieszka Sobocinska, and focuses on real-world stories from the 20th century.

The project looks at development in the Global South. It moves beyond official plans to study actual experiences in places like Ghana, Indonesia, and others. With full funding from the European Research Council, these PhD spots provide support for your studies and research.

About the DEVHIST Project

The full name of the project is “Actually Existing Development: Twentieth Century International Development and the Global South.” It examines how development programs worked in practice. Led by Agnieszka Sobocinska, a top expert in the field, the project uses archives and other sources to uncover new insights.

This research challenges old views by highlighting what people in the Global South went through. It covers the post-World War II era up to recent decades. As a PhD student, you will help build this knowledge under close guidance.

Two PhD positions are open right now. Each lets you pick a region and time period for your work.

Southeast Asia Track

This track centers on countries like Indonesia, which is the top choice. You can also study Malaysia, Thailand, or the Philippines. The time frame runs from the 1950s to the 2000s.

Your research will track how international aid and projects shaped life there. Think about health programs, farming changes, or education efforts. You will use local records and interviews to tell the full story.

This path suits those drawn to Asia’s growth during the Cold War and beyond.

Africa Track

For the Africa track, Ghana is preferred, but Nigeria or Ethiopia also work. The focus spans the 1950s to the 1990s.

You will explore development aid from donors like the UN or Western countries. Topics might include rural projects, urban growth, or anti-poverty plans. The goal is to show successes, failures, and local views.

Africa’s role in global development makes this track timely for current debates.

Benefits of Joining

These PhD positions come with full funding. That covers tuition, living costs, and travel for research. You work with Agnieszka Sobocinska, who has a strong record in global history.

You gain access to top networks in academia. This includes events, conferences, and links to other experts. Hands-on skills in archives and mixed methods will boost your career.

The project offers a spot in cutting-edge work that could influence future studies.

Ideal Candidates

Look for this if you have a degree in history, development studies, or a related area. Interest in the Global South is key. You need good skills in research and analysis.

Motivation to create new work matters most. No need for perfect experience, but a clear research idea helps. Check your fit with the tracks and time periods.

Application Steps

Start by reviewing the project details on the official site. Prepare your CV, research proposal, and references. Tailor your proposal to one track, like Indonesia or Ghana.

Submit through the official application link provided in the announcement. Deadlines are not listed here, so apply soon. For more chances, visit sites like Opportunities for Youth.

This fully funded PhD in global development history waits for the right researcher.

Frequently Asked Questions