Data Protection Surrounding Mass Graves at Bournemouth University
Job Description
Faculty Name: Faculty of Media and Communications
Funding amount: £18,622 maintenance grant per annum
Lead Supervisor name: Professor Melanie Klinker
Project description
As new technologies for identification emerge, concerns surrounding access to, and protection of, information and individuals’ data are likely to persist and even increase, with leading experts in migrant family reunification calling for ‘international guidelines and best practices for a DNA-led approach’ significantly, emerging technologies require explication not only in terms of the type of information they reveal (for example, new DNA technology called short tandem repeats (STRs)) but also on how the information might render itself to exploitation beyond the main identification purpose.
The cross-border transfer of this information, its vulnerabilities, third party involvement, data sharing and disposition are all areas for review. Whilst there is some general discussion of the issue in the literature clear linkages to mass grave investigations would help to ensure that a DNA-led framework (including database management, informed consent, sampling, analysis, chain of custody and reporting standards) is compatible with a human rights framework.
This PhD project will analyse, and where needed proffer, good governance in relation to data and sample protection, transfer, storage, disposition, ownership and sharing, thereby making a vital contribution to families and all stakeholders involved in investigation and identification processes.
What does the funded studentship include?
A fully-funded Studentship includes a maintenance grant of £18,622 per year to contribute towards living expenses during the course of your research, as well as a fee waiver for 36 months. Associated costs, such as for fieldwork and conference attendance, will also be met under the Studentship.
Eligibility criteria
The BU PhD and MRes Studentships are open to UK, EU and International students. Candidates for a PhD Studentship should demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a PhD in 4 years and must demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic potential as measured normally by either a 1st class honours degree (or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) or a Master’s degree with distinction or equivalent
- An IELTS (Academic) score of 7.5 minimum (with a minimum 6.5 in each component, or equivalent) for candidates for whom English is not their first language and this must be evidenced at point of application.
Additional Eligibility:
In addition to satisfying minimum entry criteria, BU will look closely at the qualities, skills and background of each candidate and what they can bring to their chosen research project in order to ensure successful completion.
Applicants will be asked to submit an online application form and a proposal (approximately 1500 words) outlining their understanding of the project for which they are applying, the approach they would envisage taking and what qualities they will bring to the research community.
Closing date: The closing date for applications is 05 May 2024
For further information on how to apply click the ‘Apply’ button above or email pgradmissions@bournemouth.ac.uk
