PhD in Social Change

University of Leeds

We are working to understand and influence social change across the world. From modernising policing methods in the UK to keeping girls in school in Uganda, we aim for research which has an impact. Processes such as globalisation are leading societies to become increasingly complex, requiring ever more innovative solutions to challenges such as inequality and social justice, migration, economic and environmental sustainability, and security. These issues need inter-disciplinary social science research that engages with policy-makers and the public to shape our future. The Leeds Social Sciences Institute is committed to collaborations that produce research which has an impact. Our goal is to promote partnerships, build skills capacity and carry out research to shape policy, public debate, and professional practice. Initiatives such as the Migration Research Network enable Leeds’ academics to promote change and inclusion through partnerships. The network is formed of researchers and external organisations, such as Leeds City Council and migrant support services, which ensure our approach is focused and relevant. This practical approach is also reflected in programmes such as the N8 Policing Research Partnership, a collaboration between researchers and policing professionals to address some of the challenges of public security.