School of Communications / Institute for Future Media Democracy and Society DCU

The DCU Institute of Future Media, Democracy and Society (FuJo) is seeking a PhD researcher. FuJo is a multidisciplinary research centre focused on the digital transformation of media, democracy, and society. FuJo investigates how to counter digital threats; enhance public participation through democratic innovations; and secure the sustainability of high-quality journalism and media.

The student will be based at the School of Communications at DCU which is home to almost 1,000 students at undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD levels. With a tradition stretching back more than 40 years, the School is defined by excellence in both teaching and research. In the QS global subject rankings in 2021 DCU was in the top 150 (of almost 1,500) universities worldwide in the area of communications. DCU is ranked number 1 nationally in Communications & Media Studies.

FuJo is seeking a doctoral researcher to work on a funded project to study the transmission of climate denier (greenwashing) and rebuttal narratives through social platforms, mainstream media, and political speech and help establish whether deliberative assemblies can help elites move towards climate action and withstand lobbying and information campaigns from vested interests. Quantitative skills will be vital and a background in a relevant social science is desirable: communications, political science or psychology.

The role is a part of a larger funded project and there will be excellent training and travel opportunities, as well as a tax-free stipend of €18,500 plus fees. The School also offers PhD candidates opportunities to gain teaching experience.

(For further information, contact Prof. Jane Suiter – jane.suiter@dcu.ie)

NB. Applications should consist of a 1,500-word research proposal as well as a brief CV detailing academic qualifications and professional experience to date.

NB. All applications should be submitted directly to Prof. Jane Suiter.

Successful candidates will be shortlisted and interviewed either in person or online in July. Successful candidates then will be required to apply formally to be admitted as PhD students and may also need to show proficiency in the English language. Successful candidates will begin their studies in October 2022 and are required to be normally resident in Dublin for the duration of their studies.

Closing date for applications: Friday 8 July 2022.