1. Identify a potential supervisor

You can find a list of staff and their research interests on our website. Alternatively, if you have not identified a potential supervisor, complete an Expression of Interest Form and return it with your research proposal and an up-to-date CV (including details of your academic record and any research completed) to Dr Laura Cahillane, Director of Postgraduate Studies. This information will be circulated to the Law School with a view to identifying an appropriate supervisor.

2. Develop research proposal

Following a discussion with your potential supervisor about the prospective topic, you should develop a research proposal.  A three to four-page research proposal should suffice. This should comprise the following:

  • A description of the topic (with suggested title), indicating the general aims of the research and how these differ from previously published work in the field (at least 500 words).
  • An explanation of the main concepts and theories relevant to the research and of the proposed methods of investigation;
  • An indication of any practical applications that the research might have;
  • A research plan, indicating a clear timeframe;
  • Your reasons for wishing to undertake the research at University of Limerick;
  • A short bibliography, mentioning chief works of reference.

3. Submit application

Once your supervisor has approved your research proposal, you must submit your application to the Research Applications Panel (RAP) of the School of Law. RAP meets approximately once a month during semester time. Completed applications must be emailed to the Director of Postgraduate Studies and chair of the panel (Laura.Cahillane@ul.ie) by the supervisor in order to be considered. 

A completed application must include: 

  • An application form. This form must be digitally signed by both candidate and supervisor in advance of submission. 
  • Research proposal (as an appendix to the application form) 
  • Two written references 
  • Copies of most recent academic qualification 
  • Academic IELTS if required 

The primary supervisor should also include in the email some of the following information: 

  • the connection of the applicant’s proposed research to the work/research programme of the supervisor/supervisory team 
  • whether an interview or other personal communication with the applicant has been carried out by the supervisor/supervisory team 
  • a brief overview of the applicant’s past educational and research experience 
  • an indication of the student’s anticipated funding sources 
  • any particular supports that the applicant may require 
  • any other relevant information 

Candidates with completed, submitted applications may be invited to meet with RAP, accompanied by their proposed supervisor(s) and may be asked to share a brief (five minute) presentation of their work.

Candidates will receive feedback from RAP via their supervisors. This feedback may recommend:

a) immediate progression to the next stage of the review process (UL Postgraduate Review Committee);

b) revision of the proposal with proposed supervisor(s) and progression to the next stage of the review process;

c) full resubmission of application and re-interview with RAP; or 

d) RAP may give the view that the proposal is not appropriate for doctoral study. 

Potential candidates are advised to start the application process at least six months in advance of their planned commencement dates. 

4. Submit a formal application to GPS

Following approval by RAP candidates must then submit a formal application to GPS. You must send your final completed application form, Research Proposal, two references (at least one academic), and transcripts to Dr Niamh Lenahan (Niamh.Lenahan@ul.ie), cc’ing Laura.Cahillane@ul.ie .  If English is not your first language please indicate the score you achieved if you have completed an English language proficiency test. For more information see the Graduate School English Language Requirements.

These documents will then be forwarded to the Postgraduate Admissions Graduate Office and your application will be considered at the next Postgraduate Research Committee meeting (First Tuesday of every month). If your application is approved, you will receive a letter from the Graduate School inviting you to register. Research students may register at any time of the year although, typically, students register in September/October or January.