Preparing a PhD Research Proposal (Pol Sci)
Akshay Chaudhari
This one-stop, 90-minute masterclass will equip prospective Political Science PhD students with all the skills and insights needed to develop a winning research proposal. The course begins by helping participants narrow their broad interests into a few viable, high-potential research areas through personalized brainstorming and structured analysis of emerging trends in the discipline.
Participants will receive an overview of the current state of research in key Political Science domains, enabling them to anchor their proposals within relevant debates and identify opportunities for original contributions. The session will then guide applicants through the selection of institutes and programs, with up-to-date advice on where to apply, critical timelines, and practical requirements.
The workshop covers the essential steps in the application process: from framing a sharp research question to structuring the proposal and preparing supporting documents. Special attention is given to what faculty and admission committees look for, common pitfalls, and strategies to make the application stand out. Live Q&A and tailored feedback ensure participants leave with clear direction and actionable steps for their PhD journey.