Are you interested in how international development really worked in places like Ghana or Indonesia? A new fully funded PhD in global development history offers a chance to explore this through hands-on research. This program is part of the DEVHIST project, led by historian Agnieszka Sobocinska, and it looks at real-life stories from the Global South.
About the DEVHIST Project
The DEVHIST project comes from the European Research Council (ERC). Its full name is “Actually Existing Development: Twentieth Century International Development and the Global South.” The goal is to study how development aid and policies affected everyday people, not just government plans. It moves beyond old stories to show what development looked like on the ground in Africa and Southeast Asia. You would work under Sobocinska, a top expert in the field.
Southeast Asia PhD Position
This track focuses on countries like Indonesia, which is the top choice, along with Malaysia, Thailand, or the Philippines. The time period covers the 1950s to the 2000s. You would dig into archives and other sources to uncover how international development projects played out in these nations. For example, you might examine aid programs from the Cold War era and their impact on local communities. This role lets you build skills in interdisciplinary research while contributing to fresh insights.
Africa PhD Position
For the Africa track, the preferred country is Ghana, but Nigeria or Ethiopia also work. Research would cover the 1950s to the 1990s. Think about studying post-colonial development efforts, like farming projects or health initiatives backed by foreign donors. The project highlights how these efforts shaped lives in the Global South. Your work could challenge common views and add to debates on African history.
Benefits of the Program
This fully funded PhD covers all your study costs. You get close guidance from a leading researcher like Sobocinska. Plus, you join global networks and gain experience with archives from different fields. It’s a chance to do original work that matters in history and development studies. Many past participants have gone on to strong careers in academia or policy.
Who Should Apply
Look for this if you have training in history, development studies, or similar areas. You need good research skills and a drive to study the Global South. Interest in real-world development stories is key. Strong writing and analysis abilities will help you succeed. The program suits those ready for independent academic projects.
Application Steps
Check the official link from the Opportunities for Youth site to start. Prepare your research proposal tied to one of the tracks. Submit your background in history or related fields, along with references. Deadlines and full details are on the project page. Act soon, as spots are limited in this competitive program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DEVHIST project?
The DEVHIST project, funded by the European Research Council, studies how international development aid affected everyday people in the Global South during the 20th century, focusing on Africa and Southeast Asia.
Which countries are covered in the Southeast Asia PhD track?
The Southeast Asia track prefers Indonesia but also includes Malaysia, Thailand, or the Philippines, covering the 1950s to 2000s.
What benefits does the program offer?
The fully funded PhD covers all study costs, provides guidance from expert Agnieszka Sobocinska, and offers access to global networks and archives for strong career opportunities.
How do I apply for these PhD positions?
Visit the official Opportunities for Youth site, prepare a research proposal for one track, submit your background and references, and check deadlines on the project page.
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