Funded PhD in Welsh Early Literacy Development – Education, Linguistics, Psychology University of Oxford in United Kingdom

A fully funded PhD (DPhil) opportunity is available in the Department of Education at the University of Oxford, supervised by Professors Sonali Nag and Cristina McKean. The project, 'Supporting Welsh Foundation Learning,' focuses on enhancing early language skills to improve long-term social, educational, and psychological outcomes for children in Wales. The research addresses the challenges of developing Welsh language skills in a sociolinguistic context dominated by English, aiming to support early literacy through enriched oral language activities such as shared book reading and story-telling in early education settings. The scholarship, the Brasenose Fiddian DPhil Scholarship, covers Home fees and provides a UKRI-rate stipend for the duration of the fee liability period.

Applicants must have previously attended Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools or a state school in Wales, hold an honours degree, and have completed or be completing a Masters by October 2026. Welsh language proficiency is advantageous but not required. The supervisors are leading academics in child language development, and the department offers a vibrant environment for research and professional growth. Interested candidates should contact the supervisors by early December to discuss their application and receive guidance.

This opportunity is ideal for those with backgrounds in Education, Linguistics, Psychology, or Speech and Language Therapy who are passionate about supporting language development and educational equity in Wales.