*Apologies for cross-posting*

Dear Colleagues,

The University of Manchester seeks applications for a research studentship in the field of civic engagement, with special attention to the role of information technology in shaping and facilitating the role of citizens in a modern democracy. The project relates to the trend in democracies, such as the United Kingdom, for declining levels of political participation and volunteering, and reduced trust in government, and more generally what some see as a crisis of representative democracy. Some commentators, such as Robert Putnam, see this trend as part of a change in the character of modern communities, linked to urbanisation, work-intensive lifestyles, and consumption of the media, such as television. At the same time, there are also signs of the renewal of democracies, through experiments and new forms of political engagement, such as deliberative exercises and ways governments consult and involve the citizens, which suggest the possibilities of civic and civil renewal. In particular, the greater use of the internet and other mobile communication technologies among younger people, for social networking, has the potential to transform political relationships.

The research studentship would be an empirical project, which would seek to explore some of these trends and developments, such as the use of a new form of involvement. In particular, we would welcome a proposal on the role of the internet and new technologies in addressing the changing role of the citizen in the United Kingdom.

The studentship is supported by Peter Englander, an alumnus of the University, who has personal interest in the topic. The Englander Studentship is offered at the value of £16,670 per year.

The student will be located in the Institute of Political & Economic Governance (IPEG) at the University of Manchester, which is known for its work on civil renewal and citizen involvement (http://www.ipeg.org.uk). IPEG is a research centre committed to producing theoretically informed and empirically rigorous work. In addition, IPEG ensures that its research agenda is relevant to the needs of practitioners, providing the vital link between the acquisition of knowledge and
its transfer.

For more information please visit http://www.ipeg.org.uk/englander/. Informal enquiries and requests for further information can be made to either [log in to unmask], or Professor Peter John at [log in to unmask] 

The closing date for applications is Friday 23 March 2007.

Please circulate this information to any students or colleagues who may find it of interest.

Kind regards

Aubrey  

Aubrey Scully
Web, Information & Events Officer,
Institute for Political and Economic Governance (IPEG),
Room 3.42B Williamson Building,
University of Manchester,
Oxford Road,
Manchester,
M13 9PL

Tel: +44 (0)161 275 8080
Fax: +44 (0)161 275 0793
http://www.ipeg.org.uk