PhD Leadership, Organisations and Behaviour

The PhD in Leadership, Organisations and Behaviour, based in the school of Leadership, Organisations, Behaviour and Reputation (LOBR) at Henley Business School (University of Reading), is designed to develop scholars capable of conducting original and impactful research in these interconnected fields. The programme encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, including leadership dynamics, organisational behaviour, business ethics, human resource management, knowledge management and social and organisational studies. The programme emphasises formal research training, with PhD candidates undertaking advanced modules and training in their first year to develop robust analytical and methodological skills. This foundation supports the pursuit of original research tailored to individual interests within the broad spectrum of Leadership, Organisations and Behaviour. The PhD journey includes a confirmation of registration in the second year, where researchers present and defend a fully developed research proposal. The subsequent time is dedicated to completion of the research and writing of the thesis, culminating in a viva examination. Throughout the programme, researchers benefit from personal development modules and workshops aimed at enhancing their research capabilities and professional skills. Researchers benefit from the expertise of several research centres within the department, such as the Henley Centre for Leadership, the Centre for Business Ethics and Sustainability and the Centre for Euro-Asian Studies. These centres provide a rich environment for scholarly engagement, offering access to cutting-edge research and opportunities to participate in international conferences that examine the latest developments in the field. Throughout their studies, PhD candidates receive dedicated supervision from internationally renowned faculty, benefit from outstanding facilities and are part of a dynamic research community. The programme's comprehensive approach equips graduates with the critical thinking, intellectual capacity and creativity necessary for successful academic or professional careers in leadership, organisational behaviour and related fields.

Top grades in your Masters degree (minimum requirement is Merit or equivalent, but we prefer Distinction)Top grade in your Masters Dissertation (or equivalent research-based piece of work) because this may show your research attitude and skillsA well-developed research proposal of at least 6-7 pages where you identify the motivation of your study, place it within relevant literature highlighting the current gap and potential research questions, state your intended methodology and show understanding of the data (if any) necessary to accomplish your study and relevant sources (which will also reveal the feasibility of your study)