The Jane F. Gardner PhD Studentship in Roman History and/or Latin Language and Literature

Supervisors: To be determined depending on the candidate and topic

Project Overview: Proposed projects should be within the fields of either Roman History or Latin Language and Literature, and within the time period of 753 BC to AD 600.

The Department of Classics has been undertaking pioneering research for over 100 years. We’re continually working to extend the boundaries of the subject by developing new approaches that explore previously understudied areas across a range of ancient societies and cultures. Our research embraces a wide variety of cutting-edge methodologies and disciplines.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving specialist supervision. You will also gain transferable skills that will support your career aspirations.

It is strongly recommended that candidates view the Department’s website, PhD information and staff profiles before submitting an application.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good first degree, and have obtained or be on track to obtain a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Specific selection criteria include:
  • Academic excellence of the applicant
  • Quality of the research proposal (including methodological relevance and innovation, original contribution to knowledge, project feasibility)
  • Applicants must apply to study for a PhD in the Department of Classics for a September 2025 start (or later in the 2025/26 academic year, as agreed) 

Funding Details:

• Fees at the Home rate (International students will need to cover the difference between Home and International fees.) Fees can be found on this webpage.
• A stipend (living allowance, normally tax-free) equivalent to the UKRI rate (for 2025/26 the stipend is £20,780 per annum)
• Funding is for 4 years (or part-time equivalent)
• Starting in September 2025 (or later in the 2025/26 academic year, as agreed)

How to apply: 

To apply click “Apply for a Programme” via the above ‘Apply’ button, create your account, and use the link sent by email to start the application process. During the application process please select the PhD in Classics programme. PhDs can be undertaken full-time or part-time, but not By Distance.

*Important notes*

1. Please quote the reference ‘DRC25-035’ in the ‘Scholarships applied for’ box which appears within the Funding Section of your on-line application.
2. As part of your application, you should upload

1. 1. A fully referenced research proposal (maximum 1000 words excluding references and project title). The proposal must articulate clear research questions. It should indicate clearly how the research will advance the field.
   2. A CV outlining the applicant’s qualifications and experience. 

It is not necessary to name a proposed supervisor. However, applicants are encouraged, if they wish, to make contact with possible supervisors, and may include a name. All applications will be considered equally, whether or not a supervisor is named. 

Application Deadline: 2 May 2025

Further Enquiries:

For further details please contact Director of Postgraduate Research Studies, Professor Timothy Duff

Please note that, where a candidate is successful in being awarded funding, this will be confirmed via a formal studentship award letter; this will be provided separately from any Offer of Admission and will be subject to standard checks for eligibility and other criteria.

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