PhD Studentship - Legal Geographies of Vehicle Dwelling

Overview

Manchester Metropolitan University offers a funded PhD studentship within the Manchester Law School focusing on the legal geographies of vehicle dwelling. This socio-legal research project investigates the everyday legalities and mobilities associated with living, traveling, and working from vehicles. The inquiry examines how mobile forms of dwelling are governed, mapping plural legal frameworks, analyzing everyday experiences of regulation, and exploring the normative assumptions that privilege fixed housing.

Who can apply

The opportunity is open to both home and international applicants. Candidates must hold a postgraduate degree or equivalent in law or a demonstrably relevant field of research, alongside a first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree in a related subject. Applicants are also required to possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English and an enthusiasm for multidisciplinary research and innovative methodologies, while prior research experience in socio-legal studies or legal geography is considered desirable.

What you get

The award covers both home and international tuition fees for the duration of the three-year project. Additionally, the recipient receives a standard stipend payment set at the UKRI determined level, which is currently £21,805 per year.

Requirements

Applicants must submit the online application form for a full-time PhD in Law, alongside the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, a curriculum vitae, and a covering letter explaining how their skills align with the project aims, the research area, and its importance. Supporting materials must be uploaded to the University Admissions Portal or emailed to the designated postgraduate admissions address, and submissions should include the reference FoBL-CM-2027-28-Legal Geographies Vanlife. Candidates are not required to submit a separate research proposal through the online application portal.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2027-02-02, and the expected start date for the position is October 2027.