The program focuses on the question of how social policy and social cohesion are related on a global, regional or national level. Comparative or transnational perspectives that address interdependencies between the Global South and North are especially welcome. Single country case studies may scrutinize the complex interlinkages between social policy and social cohesion.
Potential dissertation projects may address one or more of the following topics and/or questions:
1. What are the specific forms or instances of social cohesion or social dis/integration that trigger the establishment of social policy? When and how do divisions between social groups (classes, ethnic groups, etc.) translate into political cleavages that involve a mobilization for social policies aimed at strengthening social cohesion?
2. Which forms of social policy increase or decrease social cohesion? Are there also disintegrative effects of social policy? Are there specific forms of social policy that are especially contested between groups?
3. Are there functional equivalents to the welfare state fostering social integration?
4. Can social orders be stable without institutions designed to ensure social cohesion?
The English-language doctoral program includes a structured curriculum and close guidance by experienced researchers while at the same time fostering early academic independence and creativity by providing support for conducting, presenting, and publishing the Ph.D. fellows' self-chosen research projects. The program is characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers from sociology, political science, psychology, and economics. While the research questions addressed in dissertation projects are envisioned to broadly correspond to Principal Investigators' research interests, the successful applicants shall formulate specific research topics.
Requirements
We invite applications from exceptional international candidates with strong academic abilities and a Master's degree (or equivalent) in sociology, political science, psychology, or economics. Potential candidates with a degree in related disciplines are also welcome. Applicants have to demonstrate a broad thematic fit between the dissertation proposal and the corresponding Principal Investigator's outlined research interests.
All accepted researchers are asked to move to Bremen for the program's duration, as a presence at the institution is required.
Eligibility, application, and further information
You are eligible if you are an international applicant proficient in English language (speaking & writing, proof of C1-level English language skills or the equivalent). We particularly encourage applications from the Global South. In addition, you must not have resided in Germany any time after February 1, 2023.
General information on the program and the PIs, a list of required application materials, and how to apply can be found at: https://www.bigsss-bremen.de/academic-program/daad-graduate-schoolscholarship-program Applications must be submitted online until December 15, 2023 (11:59pm CET).
For additional inquiries, please check the program's website and feel free to contact our Admissions Officer Noha Mahmoud at admissions-officer@bigsss-bremen.de.
Find additional information about the GSSP program line founded by the German Academic Exchange Service's here: DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Program (bigsss-bremen.de)
The official start of the program is scheduled for September 1, 2024.
