PhD Studentship in Project Management - Cranfield University

PhD Studentship

False Optimism in Project Management

International Centre for Programme Management

Cranfield School of Management - one of Europe’s top management schools - is offering this PhD studentship within its International Centre for Programme Management, a world-leading hub for research into this important emerging discipline. The studentship is tenable for four years from October 2008

The repeated failure of major projects in the public and private sectors has been linked with the setting and sustaining of over-optimistic expectations by stakeholders. This PhD study will explore the phenomenon of false optimism in projects - its nature and its causes. We envisage that the findings of the study will have significant theoretical and practical implications.

Applications are invited from exceptionally qualified candidates for this fully funded full-time studentship under the supervision of Dr Elmar Kutsch. Applicants should have a good first degree in a relevant discipline. Ideally, we are seeking an individual with a background in social psychology. Experience of working on projects is desirable, although not essential. An MBA or relevant specialist masters degree would be an advantage.

The studentship includes full payment of fees at the UK or overseas rate and stipend of £12,940 per annum.

For an informal discussion about the project, please contact Dr. Elmar Kutsch, tel +44 (0)1234 751122, email Elmar.kutsch@cranfield.ac.uk, Website http://www.som.cranfield.ac.uk/som/research/centres/icpm/

The closing date for applications is 7 July 2008.

Full details of the application process, the PhD programme and other PhD projects are available on the School’s website at www.cranfield.ac.uk/som/phd or from the PhD Programme Manager, Wendy Habgood, on tel +44 (0)1234 754373, email wendy.habgood@cranfield.ac.uk