Self-Funded PhD Research Project
Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health / GSBS
Project Reference Number: Added by Research Administrators
Project Title: Geographies of Social Enterprise
Self-funded research applications are invited for the following PhD project at Glasgow Caledonian
University. Please note that as this project is not funded by a university studentship, the successful
candidate will be required to source external funding for the research degree fees and living expenses
while studying at the university.
Research Discipline areas
Social Policy, Geography, Social Innovation
Research Theme(s)
 Inclusive Societies – Social Innovation
 Inclusive Societies –Equalities and Justice
Research Supervisor Contact
Candidates are encouraged to contact the following researchers for further details on the proposed
research project area.
 Dr Micaela Mazzei, micaela.mazzei@gcu.ac.uk , Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health,
https://www.gcu.ac.uk/yunuscentre/theteam/academicresearchstaff/micaelamazzei/
 http://www.gcu.ac.uk/yunuscentre/theteam/academicresearchstaff/simonteasdale/
 Dr Artur Steiner, artur.steiner@gcu.ac.uk, Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health / Glasgow
School for Business and Society
 Professor Simon Teasdale, simon.teasdale@gcu.ac.uk , Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health /
Glasgow School for Business and Society
Research Project Summary
Social enterprise is recognised as a growing part of local economies and an increasingly important feature of
public policy. In many countries social enterprises are considered as examples of organisations able to drive
economic growth, support disadvantaged areas and groups, and contribute to the reform of public
services. However, whilst policy discourses tend to be dominated by universalised models of social enterprise,
comparative empirical studies are increasingly evidencing the geographical variety in social enterprise
experiences.
We need a greater understanding of what determines the variation in social enterprise development and
sustainability from context to context; whether and how different geographies influence the potential for
social enterprise to develop and grow; what constitutes an enabling environment for social enterprise
sustainability; what impacts on social enterprise performance in place; and how successful examples can be
transferred to different contexts in respect of their local determinants. We are therefore keen to hear from
people interested in undertaking doctoral research on these broad topics.
The Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health is an interdisciplinary research centre, home to researchers
from disciplines including economics, geography, politics, sociology and social policy. Our academics have
expertise in a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods. PhD students will work alongside
these academic staff and be part of a thriving cohort of doctoral students studying in similar areas.
Mode(s) of Study
Delete as applicable:
This project is available as a:
Version3.0Apr15



PhD: 3 years full-time
PhD: 4.5 years part-time
1 + 3 route to PhD: Undertaking MRes [1 year full-time or 2 years part-time] + PhD as above
Institute/Research Groups (if applicable)
Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health
APPLICATION DETAILS
Eligibility
Applicants will normally hold a UK honours degree 2:1 (or equivalent); or a Master’s degree in a subject
relevant to the research project. Equivalent professional qualifications and any appropriate research
experience may be considered. A minimum English language level of IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) with no
element below 6.0 is required. Some research disciplines may require higher levels.
Specific requirements of the project (if applicable):
How to Apply
Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisor contact for the project before applying.
Applicants should complete the GCU Research Application Form (available from:
http://www.gcu.ac.uk/research/phdresearchopportunities/) stating the project title and reference
number and attaching a research proposal.
The form should be sent with copies of academic qualifications (including IELTS if required), 2 references
and any other relevant documentation to: researchapplications@gcu.ac.uk. Applicants shortlisted for a
PhD will be contacted for an interview.
Application Deadlines
The PhD programmes commence in 01 October, 01 February or 01 May of each year. The application
deadlines for 2015-16 are as follows:



October 2015 Start - 30 June 2015
February 2016 Start - 1 December 2015
May 2016 Start - 1 March 2016
Research Degree Fees
Current fee information: http://www.gcu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/feesfinance/researchfees/
Version3.0Apr15