Animation Cultures and Industries in Transition: Towards Sustainable Futures

Summary

Animation is being reshaped by rapid technological, economic and cultural change. This PhD project will explore how animation cultures and industries can respond to these changes while building more sustainable futures.

The successful applicant will develop a focused project within this broad theme. Possible areas would include the impact of AI, virtual production and other emerging technologies on animation; changing forms of creative work and professional skills; sustainable careers and working practices; regional animation industries; cultural identity, diversity and local storytelling; or the preservation and renewal of animation heritage.

Sustainability can be understood in economic, social, cultural or environmental terms. For example, the project might consider how regional animation industries can remain resilient, how creative workers can adapt to technological change, or how local cultures and traditions can be sustained within an increasingly global and digital industry.

Projects focusing on Northern Ireland or the island of Ireland are particularly welcome, although applicants may also propose research on another national or regional context, or a comparative study. Applicants will have the flexibility to shape the project around their own interests and expertise while maintaining a clear connection to animation, industrial change and sustainability.

This project would suit applicants with a background in animation, film and media studies, creative industries, cultural studies or a related area who are interested in the changing conditions and future development of animation.

Essential criteria

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.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Research proposal of no more than 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• International applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to a distinction at Ulster
• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience or knowledge of research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

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, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.