The Research School on Peace and Conflict invites applications for the PhD course Advanced Qualitative Methods in Conflict Studies: Case Research and Process Analytics to take place at PRIO in Oslo on 19 – 23 August 2019. The deadline for applications is 5 May 2019.

This seminar provides an in-depth introduction to case-based methods and process analytics. We begin with some preliminaries (epistemology, ethics, transparency) and then survey key methods, including case studies, case selection and several techniques designed to capture process. The latter include interviewing, practice analytics and process tracing. Whenever possible, students will be introduced to both the positivist and interpretive variants of particular methods.

In the course's second part, we move from the conceptual to the applied, examining case and process methods in action - in conflict zones and post-conflict settings. Epistemology, ethics, measurement and data-access/transparency are key themes throughout. The fundamental goal is for students to acquire sufficient knowledge to be smart, epistemologically plural and rigorous users of case-based research in conflict and post-conflict settings.

The course will be run as a seminar, where debate and discussion are the norm; for each session, students will prepare a set of questions that structure our discussions.

The course is free of charge, but students will have to cover their own travel and accommodation costs.

PhD students will normally be prioritized.

Equals 10 ECTS (with approved essay) according to standards of University of Oslo.

Please visit the course page for further information and to submit your application.