PhD study
SPRU offers an inclusive and active academic community that embraces a broad range of research topics and methodological approaches. The multidisciplinary nature of SPRU’s research means that doctoral students have access, and contribute, to a tremendous range of expertise.
We offer two routes to PhD study:
- An integrated degree combining one of SPRU’s MSc degrees with doctoral research. The expected duration of the combined degree is about four years.
- A stand-alone degree of doctoral research undertaken by students whose prior research training in a relevant field has been equivalent to that provided by a SPRU Masters degree. In this case, the expected duration of the degree is three years.
Find out about PhD opportunities in Science and Technology Policy and Innovation Management Studies.
Science and Technology Policy Studies Integrated PhD
From science and technology capability building in developing countries to policy and regulation in energy and high technology industries to rethinking sustainable development – our current research projects fall under three main headings:
- Governance and Sustainability
- Innovation in Firms and Industries
- National and International Science and Technology Systems.
You’ll work with internationally recognised experts employing an issue-focused interdisciplinary approach to innovation and industrial policy.
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Hear from those who studied Science and Technology Policy at SPRU
Technology and Innovation Management Integrated PhD
Key areas of interest include:
- Technology strategy
- High-growth new ventures
- Infrastructure sectors
- Healthcare and bio-pharmaceuticals
- The management of knowledge and intellectual property.
At SPRU, our research focuses on the direction, degree and impact of technological change. We aim to understand the varied pathways through which it may develop and how that can be strategically managed.
We work on enhancing innovation in all types of organisations, and across all sectors. This involves developing and delivering tools to improve the management of innovation within organisations and between organisations and their suppliers and customers.
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Hear from someone who studied Technology and Innovation Management at SPRU
PhD Studentships
SPRU is part of the South East Doctoral Training Arc (SEDarc) ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership, which is offering ESRC-funded studentships for UK and EU students for PhD degree (+3) or combined Masters and PhD degree (1+3). If you would like to be considered for this funding, you need to apply for a PhD place at the University of Sussex, including a completed SEDarc application form, by midday on 8 January 2024. For more information, see the SEDarc page at the University of Sussex Doctoral School.
SPRU is also offering two 3-year PhD studentships on ‘Innovation and Policy Acceleration’, with application deadline 17 April 2024.