PhD in "Performative" Social Science

Bournemouth University announces a second call for applications for a new PhD bursary in "Performative" Social Science. Applications must be received by 31st May 2006.

In recent times, the excitement and possibilities for diversity in (re)presentations of social science data
have continued to blossom xponentially. Thus, a convergence between the arts and the social sciences has been set in motion. Social scientists have begun
to challenge the traditional binary between research and representation, that is, between acts of observing
or gathering data and subsequent reports on this process. This had led us to a consideration of the 'performative' possibilities of social science.

The aim of the PhD bursary in Performative Social Science is to develop a researcher with the capability
to utilise tools and techniques from across the arts and social sciences in gathering data and disseminating findings in innovative and productive
new ways, and moving knowledge forward by communicating issues and research findings to professional, scientific, policy, and lay audiences through new means.

The 'industry' of art with which we wish the social science PhD candidate to engage can take many forms. It could be in physical places such as museums,
galleries, theatre companies, media production companies, broadcast outlets, dance companies, community organisations, and so on. It could also
take on the shape of producing work inspired by such outlets, perhaps creating a body of works (paintings,
choreography, scripts, etc.) The project, however, will be based in and driven by social science concerns. The candidate will emerge from the process
with expertise and extended capabilities and knowledge of new technologies for use in innovative diffusion of social science data, able to engage potential audiences for research findings in refreshing and
vital new ways and to share this expertise with other social scientists.

The PhD is thus envisaged as one about developing process, rather than a prescribed research agenda. The candidate will be supervised by faculty from the Institute of Health & Community Studies and the Media
School at Bournemouth University.

For an informal discussion about your interest in the bursary in Performative Social Science, please contact
Dr Kip Jones kipworld@gmail.com

Further information on the PhD bursaries offered by the Institute of Health & Community Studies at Bournemouth, including the Performative Social Science bursary:

More information and how to apply:
http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/thegraduateschool/phd_studentships/how_to_a...

Dr Kip Jones
Reader in Health Related Social Science
Centre for Qualitative Research
Institute of Health & Community Studies
Bournemouth University United Kingdom
Website: www.kipworld.net