PhD Studentship - Digital State Capitalism in International Business: Geopolitics, Digital Sovereignty and Techno-Nationalism
Overview
This full-time PhD studentship at Manchester Metropolitan University investigates the intersection of geopolitics, digital sovereignty, and techno-nationalism in international business. The research explores how geopolitical rivalry and digitalisation strategies reshape the relationship between states and multinational enterprises. Through comparative case studies, policy analysis, and business and media data, the project examines emerging forms of digital state capitalism across different political-economic systems.
Who can apply
The opportunity is open to both home and international applicants. Candidates must possess excellent research and communication skills, intellectual curiosity, diligence, perseverance, and strong academic writing and analytical abilities. Applicants should be able to think critically about complex political-economic issues, engage with relevant theories, and investigate complex real-world data. Desirable qualifications include experience with qualitative or quantitative research methods, familiarity with international political economy or digital governance, and proficiency in a second language.
What you get
The three-year award covers both home and international tuition fees for the duration of the program. Additionally, the student receives a standard stipend payment determined by the UKRI, set at £21,805 per academic year.
Requirements
Applicants must submit an online application form for a full-time PhD in International Business, quoting reference FoBL-SS-2027-28-Digital State Capitalism. A separate research proposal is not required through the online portal. Candidates must instead complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form outlining their approach to the research topic, methods, sources of evidence, and forms of analysis. A curriculum vitae and a covering letter demonstrating how skills and experience relate to the project aims must also be provided.
Key dates
The closing date for applications is 2027-02-02, and the expected start date for the program is October 2027.
Links in this posting
- If you have any questions, please contact the proposed Principal Supervisor, Dr Sergey Sosnovskikh (s.sosnovskikh@mmu.ac.uk).
- If you have any questions, please contact the proposed Principal Supervisor, Dr Sergey Sosnovskikh (s.sosnovskikh@mmu.ac.uk).
- Doctoral Project Applicant Form
- Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal or email the requested documents to pgradmissions@mmu.ac.uk.