The University of Manchester
Doctoral Researcher

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Company Description
The University of Manchester is a globally recognised institution known for pioneering research, high-quality teaching, and a strong commitment to social responsibility. As a member of the Russell Group, it consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide, including 35th in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 46th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025. The university is a leader in social and environmental impact, placing in the global top ten for both the QS World University Sustainability Rankings and Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for its work towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With a diverse community of over 44,000 students, 12,800 staff, and 550,000 alumni from 190 countries, the institution fosters international collaboration to address major global challenges. It is also one of the most popular and most targeted UK universities for undergraduate applications and graduate employment opportunities.
Role Description
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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The Doctoral Researcher role is a full-time, on-site position based in Manchester. The role involves designing and conducting original research projects, including literature reviews, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of findings in collaboration with academic supervisors and research teams. The Doctoral Researcher will prepare publications, conference papers, and presentations, and contribute to grant applications, project reports, and research dissemination activities. Responsibilities also include participating in seminars, workshops, and departmental meetings, engaging with relevant stakeholders, and maintaining accurate records in line with research ethics and governance requirements. The role provides opportunities for professional development, teaching or mentoring support for students where appropriate, and contribution to the wider academic community of the University.
Qualifications
- Relevant master’s degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline and a strong academic track record.
- Demonstrated research skills, including literature review, critical analysis, and research design.
- Experience with data collection and analysis methods appropriate to the field (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
- Strong academic writing skills and ability to prepare manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with supervisors, peers, and external partners.
- Ability to manage time, meet deadlines, and work independently while contributing to a team-based research environment.
- Commitment to research integrity, ethical conduct, and inclusive, non-discriminatory practice.


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