PhD Researcher in Sociology

Trinity is Ireland’s leading university and is ranked 75th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026). Founded in 1592, the University is steeped in history with a reputation for excellence in [ed](: https://www.tcd.ie/hr/assets/pdf/academic-hours-public-service-agreement.pdf)ucation, research, and innovation, which has been inspiring generations of thinkers for over 400 years. Trinity College Dublin- an introduction Post Summary The Department of Sociology at Trinity College Dublin recruits a highly motivated and outstanding doctoral researcher for a period of 4 years (48 months). The person appointed will conduct an innovative PhD project on far-right mobilization and community responses in Ireland. The research consists of systematic case studies of how local communities respond to far-right mobilizations and how different types of responses shape local conflict dynamics and forms of belonging. The project is structured around two core sub-topics and addresses the following research questions: 1. Trajectories and variation in far-right mobilization How do responses by different social actors shape far-right mobilization in local communities? Which actors respond—or do not respond—and in what ways? What factors influence whether and how actors engage with far-right mobilization? How do patterns of social response vary across communities? 2. Consequences of far-right mobilization for local communities What effects does far-right mobilization have on local communities? How does it shape cooperation among local actors (e.g. civil society, media, institutional actors) and community experiences of inclusion, exclusion, and belonging? How do these effects vary across communities? The successful candidate will be integrated into a PhD project that develops an innovative mixed methods approach to the study of far-right mobilization and community responses in Ireland. The 2 project will provide the student with the opportunity to carry out independent case studies of local conflict dynamics, generating new knowledge on how communal and institutional actors respond to the challenges posed by divisive far-right politics, and how these local contestations shape emerging forms of exclusion and belonging. The PhD candidate will be encouraged to develop their own analytical perspective and empirical research strategies, provided these remain within the scope of the planned project. Over the course of the PhD, the candidate will gain skills in collaborative project management, research communication, and community-oriented research practice. The Department of Sociology at Trinity College Dublin will provide logistical, academic, and intellectual support by integrating the PhD candidate into a large and vibrant community of social science doctoral students at Trinity College Dublin. Application Procedure Candidates should submit: ▪ a motivation letter clearly indicating how the applicant’s profile and skills fit the requirements of the job position (max. 1 page); ▪ a full curriculum vitae; ▪ the names and contact details of 2 referees (with email addresses included); ▪ at least one example of a written piece (in English and including some empirical data analysis) that shows the analytical and writing skills of the candidate in a social science discipline; ▪ via email to MEIERL@tcd.ie ▪ by Thursday 30th April 2026 (23:00 GMT), ▪ indicating exactly “PhD Application – Community Response Far-Right” in the subject line Our Values - putting our words into action Values matter. They are key to the success of our Strategic Plan. We centre our behavioural values around the importance of belonging. We recognise that the university will thrive by each of us respecting and caring for one another. We know we can achieve much more through working together. We know too that we must take responsibility for our actions and be accountable. We must, and will never stop, imagining. And through being nature positive we connect not just with the environment but with our ambitions for a sustainable future. At Trinity, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all individuals, including those with disabilities, those who have followed non-traditional career paths, and those who have taken time out for reasons such as family or caring responsibilities. We also welcome international applicants, including those who have been displaced due to conflict or war. Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s premier university. We are an EU Sustainable Gender Equality Champion and hold an Athena Swan Silver Award, recognising our ongoing work to advance gender equality both within Trinity and across the higher education sector. Trinity is committed to supporting work–life balance and creating a family-friendly working environment. Further Information Filesize Notes Job Description 328.8 Return to Search