SHU
Understanding the digital needs of (dis)connected communities
✓ Funded (Competition)
⏰ Closing Soon
interdisciplinary
participatory research
artificial intelligence
community connectedness
digital divide
digital inclusion
quantitative methods
social cohesion
Investigate digital inclusion challenges in diverse communities using advanced AI and mixed methods. Create actionable insights to promote social connectedness and wellbeing through technology.
AI-generated overview
Digital Inclusion
Community Connectedness
Social Cohesion
Artificial Intelligence
Quantitative Methods
Participatory Research
Project Description
This PhD is part of the Centre for Collaboration in Community Connectedness (C4), a UKRI-funded initiative exploring how to build stronger, more resilient communities.
The project focuses on understanding:
digital exclusion and limited connectivity
barriers to accessing digital services
impacts on participation, wellbeing, and community life
The research will:
use mixed and participatory methods
engage directly with communities
explore social, economic, and geographic factors affecting digital access
evaluate how digital tools can enhance community connectedness
The aim is to:
generate evidence on “what works” for digital inclusion
inform policy and community-based interventions
support equitable access to digital services
The candidate will:
work within an interdisciplinary research environment
collaborate with academic, policy, and community partners
be part of the ESRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership
Entry Requirements
Academic:
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree
and/or relevant Master’s degree (Merit or above)
Application Materials:
Research proposal (max 1,500 words)
Personal statement (structured responses)
Academic transcripts
Two referees
Passport/visa (if applicable)
English requirement (international):
IELTS 7.0 overall
minimum 6.5 per component
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree
and/or relevant Master’s degree (Merit or above)
Application Materials:
Research proposal (max 1,500 words)
Personal statement (structured responses)
Academic transcripts
Two referees
Passport/visa (if applicable)
English requirement (international):
IELTS 7.0 overall
minimum 6.5 per component
How to Apply
Apply via Sheffield Hallam University online application system (October 2026 intake)
Contact:
e.lockley@shu.ac.uk
doctoralschool-ssa-pgr@shu.ac.uk
Optional:
attend Q&A webinar (15 April 2026)
Application deadline: 1 May 2026 (17:00 GMT+1)
Interviews: Week of 18 May or 1 June 2026
Contact:
e.lockley@shu.ac.uk
doctoralschool-ssa-pgr@shu.ac.uk
Optional:
attend Q&A webinar (15 April 2026)
Application deadline: 1 May 2026 (17:00 GMT+1)
Interviews: Week of 18 May or 1 June 2026
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
DE
Dr Ellie Lockley
Sheffield Hallam University, Centre for Collaboration in Community Connectedness (C4)
Dr Ellie Lockley researches digital inclusion and community connectedness, focusing on how technology impacts social participation and wellbeing. Her work applies interdisciplinary, mixed methods approaches including quantitative and AI techniques. She leads projects that co-design research with communities to generate evidence for effective social and digital policy interventions.
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