Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg

PhD Programme Heritage Studies

Application for the PhD Programme

PhD Proposal
Topic of the research project
Focus Area

Last name, first name

Address
Phone number
Email address
Date
Index
1. Abstract..........................................................................................................2
2. PhD Proposal................................................................................................3
2.1. Introduction..............................................................................................3
2.1.1. Statement of the problem.................................................................3
2.1.2. State of the art..................................................................................3
2.2. Objectives, methods and work schedule.................................................3
2.2.1. Objectives.........................................................................................3
2.2.2. Methods............................................................................................3
2.2.3. Work schedule..................................................................................3
2.3. Contribution of the research to the focus area........................................4
3. Tentative chapters of the PhD thesis............................................................5
4. Bibliography...................................................................................................6

1
1. Abstract
(max. 1 page)
Please summarise the main goals of the project. The goal of the abstract is to make the
reader want to learn more about your research. Each section is typically a single
sentence, although there is room for creativity. Moreover, it is important to demonstrate
in which one of the five focus areas you want to do your research. Use the following as
a checklist for your abstract:

 Statement of the problem

 Objectives
 Hypothesis
 Methods
 Contribution of the research within the focus area
 Conclusion

2
2. PhD Proposal
(max. 10 pages)

1.1. Introduction

1.1.1. Statement of the problem

Why do we care about the problem? What practical, scientific, theoretical or artistic gap
is your research filling?

1.1.2. State of the art

Please outline the state of the art in your field and its direct relationship to this project
briefly and precisely. Describe the added value of the project as opposed to
competitive products from other companies including a literature review in which you
discuss the critical points of current knowledge, e.g. substantive findings as well as
theoretical and methodological contributions to your topic.

1.2. Objectives, hypothesis, methods and work schedule

1.2.1. Objectives
Please give a concise description of the scientific objectives of your research project
and your hypothesis.

1.2.2. Hypothesis
Please give a concise description of the hypothesis of your research project.

1.2.3. Methods
Please provide a detailed description of the methods that you plan to use in the project:
Which methods are already available? Which methods need to be developed? What
assistance is needed from outside your own group/institute? Are there costs involved?

1.2.4. Work schedule

Please give a detailed account of the steps planned. The quality of the work schedule
is critical to the success of a funding proposal. You should therefore pay special
attention to the design of the work schedule.

3
1.3. Contribution of the research to the focus area
Please describe the added value of the project with regard to your focus area. This
description should make clear in which focus area you situate your own research and
how you intend to make an innovative and promising contribution.

4
3. Tentative chapters of the PhD thesis
Please include a preliminary structure of your dissertation (chapters, sub-chapters,
etc.)

5
4. Bibliography
Please include a list of publications that are related to the proposed project. It serves
as an important basis for assessing your proposal.