The European Sociological Association (ESA) PhD Summer School 2026 – Applications Open

Application deadline:  24 August, 2026

Apply now to join the ESA PhD Summer School 2026 an intensive, high-level academic program tailored for doctoral researchers in sociology and allied fields. This Summer School delivers a structured and supportive environment where early-career scholars can present, debate, and refine their ongoing PhD research under the guidance of senior sociologists and alongside a diverse cohort of peers from across Europe and beyond.

Academic Focus

The Summer School is thematically aligned with the ESA 2026 Conference with a strong focus on:

• Democracy
• Social Action
• Solidarity
• Sustainable Futures

Participants will present core elements of their doctoral projects and receive in-depth feedback on:

• Theoretical foundations and epistemological positioning
• Methodological design and rigor
• Scientific relevance and practical implications

The program culminates in a plenary debate addressing broader challenges in doctoral research, including academic identity, career development, publication strategies, and navigating the final stages of the PhD journey.

Learning Environment and Networking

Designed to promote intellectual growth and professional community, the Summer School features:

• Intensive feedback from senior scholars and peer discussants
• Structured interdisciplinary exchange
• Engagement with doctoral researchers from varied European regions and sociological traditions
• A collaborative space to build academic confidence and career readiness

Key Details

• Places Available: 25 PhD students (plus 5 on a waiting list)
• Format: On-site, in-person event
• Language: English
• Location: Warsaw, Poland
• Dates: 22–24 August 2026

Funding and Practical Support

ESA provides inclusive financial support to ensure wide participation:

• Accommodation: 3 nights (22–24 August 2026) booked and covered by ESA
• Meals: Provided throughout the Summer School
• Travel Support: Reimbursement of up to €350 after the event
• Sustainability: Participants are encouraged to use environmentally friendly transport where possible

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be registered in a PhD program in Sociology or a related discipline
• Be enrolled at a European university
• Be a current ESA member (or commit to becoming one before the Summer School)

Application Guidelines

Submit your application via ESA ConfTool 2026 by 30 January 2026.

Required Documents:

1. Abstract (max. 350 words)

The document must include subheadings:

• Title of paper
• Keywords (max. 4)
• Research question
• Theoretical framework
• Methodology (for empirical papers)
• Preliminary findings or conclusions
• Novel contribution and significance of the research

2. Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages)

Begin with:

• Full name
• Academic affiliation (department/university)
• Country of PhD registration
• Current year of PhD study
• Email address & phone number
• Name, affiliation, and email of main supervisor

During submission, applicants will also select an ESA Research Network for possible presentation at the ESA 2026 Conference if not selected for the Summer School.

Selection Process

A peer-review selection will be based on:

• Scientific quality and originality of the abstract
• Contribution to sociological theory, methods, or empirical knowledge
• Relevance to Summer School and conference themes

Additional considerations

• Balanced regional representation across Europe
• Diversity of subfields and research topics
• Priority to applicants who:
• Have not previously attended an ESA Summer School
• Are in the final stages of their PhD

Requirements for Selected Participants

Selected PhD researchers must commit to:

• Submitting a full paper (max. 6,000 words, including references) by 15 May 2026
• Papers will be pre-circulated and assigned peer discussants
• Active, mandatory participation in all feedback sessions and discussions

Only apply if you agree to these conditions and can meet all deadlines.

Instructors and Academic Leadership

The Summer School will be led by members of the ESA Executive Committee, including:

• Milica Antić Gaber (Slovenia)
• Nilay Kaya (Turkey)
• Marilena Macaluso (Italy)
• Maggie O’Neil (Ireland)
• Ana-Cristina Santos (Portugal)
• Ana Vidu (Spain)
• Krešimir Žažar (Croatia)
• ESA President: Kaja Gadowska (Poland)

The European Sociological Association warmly invites applications and looks forward to supporting the next generation of sociological researchers.

Click here to apply