Waves of technological change are shaping the economy and the nature of work. Technologies are automating routine tasks, enabling flexible working, and increasing the demand for cognitive skills that cannot be automated by technology. Advances in technology are radically changing the relationship between people and machines, and in turn the structure of professions and associated tasks. The Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) has been implementing technology in a range of functional areas. Moreover, increasingly citizen-facing government services have been transformed through the introduction of digital technologies. These developments have led to the elimination of tasks and the need for additional skills in the functional areas affected. There is a need to more fully understand the impact of technology on each of the functional areas.
This study will involve analysing human capital management and development strategies for individuals at the functional level in the NICS. It will also involve considering the implications for human resource policies and practices in these functions. Particular emphasis will be placed on assessing the change management implications for these functions. The Ulster University Business School has already carried out research in the NICS in the area of shared services, and has developed strong contacts with the NICS. In particular, discussions have already taken place key decision makers in Enterprise Shared Services in the NICS, and he his keen to facilitate research in the areas of digital transformation.
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.
We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.
In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.
If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.
The University offers the following levels of support:
The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:
These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.
Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.
Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.
The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).
This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.
Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living
Submission deadline
Monday 19 February 2018
12:00AM
Interview Date
12 March 2018
Preferred student start date
Mid September 2018
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