How do I apply for the 2026 PhD Cohort?

To apply for the 2026 programme, please email the following documents to Professor Sioux McKenna (s.mckenna@ru.ac.za) and copy Ms Nomfundo Siqwede (n.siqwede@ru.ac.za).

• A concept note of six to eight pages in which you outline why your proposed topic should be researched. We’d like to see some engagement with the literature but do not expect to see a full proposal with planned methods at this stage.
• A copy of your CV
• A copy of your master’s thesis
• A copy of your master examiners’ reports (if possible)

The application deadline is 31 October 2025.

A selection committee will sit in November to consider the applications. Only full applications will be considered.

Short-listed candidates will be invited to an interview.

Candidates will be selected on the strength of their concept notes, evidence of quality in previous research, and ability to articulate the value of their study in the interview. Importantly, acceptance also depends on supervision capacity related to the specific topic.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome by 10 December 2025.

Join us for an information session at 10 am (South African Time) on Friday 19 September to find out more about this programme and how to apply. Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/3PMYwmXNS2Gv3pOGzmA7Gg (A recording of this session will be sent to all who register)

Last Modified: Mon, 08 Sep 2025 15:52:06 SAST