About the Programme:
The Research Committee 21 (RC21) of the International Sociological Association, together with the International Journal of Urban and Regional Research (IJURR) and the IJURR Foundation, is inviting applications for its 8th Doctoral School in Comparative Urban Studies. Scheduled in Vienna from 9–22 July 2026, the two-week programme is designed for early-stage PhD scholars working on cities, urban theory, socio-spatial processes, and comparative research.
The School includes ten days of intensive sessions followed by participation in the RC21 Conference (20–22 July 2026) on the theme “Inequalities and the City. Old Issues, New Challenges.” The programme combines lectures, methodological workshops, peer feedback sessions, site visits, and discussions led by leading global scholars.
Eligibility:
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PhD students in the 1st or 2nd year of their doctoral programme.
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Candidates still shaping their research design and methodological approaches.
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Students who have not yet begun or completed fieldwork.
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Scholars from ISA Category A, B, or C countries.
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A limited number of full scholarships are available for students from Category B & C countries.
Roles and Responsibilities (Programme Requirements):
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Submit a written paper on your doctoral research four weeks before the School.
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Complete assigned readings in advance.
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Actively participate for the entire duration of the Doctoral School and the RC21 Conference.
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Present your research and engage in peer discussion and critique.
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Attend lectures, workshops, guest sessions, site visits, and practical modules on urban research and publication.
How to Apply:
Applicants must complete all three steps by the deadline:
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Fill the online application form- https://www.rc21.org/en/8th-rc21-ijurr-foundation-ijurr-doctoral-school-in-comparative-urban-studies-vienna-austria-9-22-july-2026/
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Email a single PDF containing your CV and Motivation Statement to RC21summerschool@gmail.com.
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Ensure your referee sends a reference letter directly to the same email address from their institutional email ID.
Deadline: 2 January 2026 (midnight GMT)
Link to official notification-LINK
