[Commlist] PhD Positions at the Department of Social Media Studies at the Social Sciences University of Ankara

PhD Positions at the Department of Social Media Studies at the Social 
Sciences University of Ankara (Ankara, Turkey)


CALL FOR CANDIDATES FOR THE PHD PROJECTS 2025

https://sbe.asbu.edu.tr/en/doktora-programlar/PhD%20in%20Social%20Media%20Studies%20%28English%29?language=en 
<https://sbe.asbu.edu.tr/en/doktora-programlar/PhD%20in%20Social%20Media%20Studies%20%28English%29?language=en>

The Department of Social Media Studies at the Social Sciences University 
of Ankara invites applications for its PhD in Social Media Studies, 
starting in September 2025. This research-focused program is designed 
for students interested in critically analyzing digital media and online 
platforms. Our interdisciplinary program integrates media studies, 
culture, politics, psychology, law, and data science, equipping students 
with the theoretical and methodological tools to conduct original research.

We are seeking highly motivated candidates for the following PhD projects.

1. Digital Cultures and Online Communities

This PhD position explores the formation of digital publics, identity, 
and belonging in online spaces. Candidates are encouraged to investigate 
how digital platforms facilitate new forms of community and cultural 
expression, particularly in non-Western contexts. Research may employ 
qualitative methods such as digital ethnography or quantitative 
approaches like network analysis.

2. Platform Studies and Algorithmic Governance

This project examines the role of algorithms in shaping online 
experiences, focusing on issues such as data ethics, content moderation, 
and algorithmic bias. Candidates should have a strong interest in the 
intersection of technology, society, and governance. The research may 
involve computational methods or critical discourse analysis.

3. Social Media and Politics

This PhD position investigates the role of social media in shaping 
political discourse, activism, and propaganda. Candidates are encouraged 
to explore topics such as online activism, digital propaganda, and the 
impact of social media on public opinion. The project may involve case 
studies, content analysis, or mixed methods.

4. Psychological and Behavioral Aspects of Social Media

This project focuses on the psychological impact of social media use, 
including mental health, digital well-being, and the psychology of 
online interactions. Candidates should have a background in psychology, 
sociology, or media studies. The research may employ surveys, 
experiments, or qualitative interviews.

5. Misinformation and Digital Ethics

This PhD position examines the spread of fake news, disinformation, and 
ethical considerations in digital media. Candidates are encouraged to 
adopt interdisciplinary approaches, combining media studies, ethics, and 
data science. The project may involve computational analysis of social 
media data or qualitative case studies.

6. Social Media and the Global South

This project explores platform adoption, digital divides, and localized 
online practices in non-Western contexts. Candidates should have a 
strong interest in postcolonial studies, digital anthropology, or media 
studies. The research may involve fieldwork, interviews, or comparative 
analysis.

7. Digital Art and Creative Expression

This PhD position investigates the role of social media in artistic 
expression and the creative industries. Candidates are encouraged to 
explore how digital platforms enable new forms of creativity and 
cultural production. The research may involve digital ethnography, 
content analysis, or interviews with artists and creators.

Program Overview

Duration: Up to 4 years (full-time)

Start Date: September 2025

Application Period: March 3, 2025 – June 1, 2025

The PhD program is structured to provide a balance of theoretical 
knowledge, methodological training, and independent research. Students 
are expected to:

• Complete 1 mandatory course (Research Methods and Publication Ethics) 
and 6 elective courses from a wide range of options.

• Pass a Doctoral Qualifying Exam (written and oral) by the end of the 
second year.

• Develop and present a research proposal by the end of the second year.

• Conduct original empirical research under the guidance of a 
supervisor, culminating in a written thesis evaluated through a viva 
examination.

Entry Requirements

1. Degree Requirements:

O A Master’s degree (or equivalent) is required.

O Applicants must submit both their Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas and 
transcripts.

2. English Language Requirements:

O Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the 
following:

·TOEFL IBT: 84 (minimum 16 in each skill)

·CAE: Grade C

·CPE: Grade C

·PTE: 62

·ASBU EPE: 70

·YÖKDİL / e-YÖKDİL: 80

·YDS / e-YDS: 80

O Applicants who do not meet these requirements may enroll in a foreign 
language preparation program for up to two semesters.

Application Requirements

• Diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s)

• Transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s)

• Letter of Intent (specific to the program)

• Two Reference Letters

• Passport Copy

• Recent Passport-Sized Photo (in JPEG format)

• English Proficiency Score (if applicable)

• CV

• No Application Fee!

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the 
online application system, which will be open from March 3, 2025, to 
June 1, 2025. Applicants must include a motivation letter specifying 
their interest in one of the PhD projects, along with a detailed 
research proposal (max. 1,500 words).

Apply online through our application portal: 
[https://obs.asbu.edu.tr/oibs/foa_app/ 
<https://obs.asbu.edu.tr/oibs/foa_app/>]

For any questions, please contact the PhD Program Coordinator at 
(nevfel.boz /at/ asbu.edu.tr) <mailto:(nevfel.boz /at/ asbu.edu.tr)>

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