The Public Services International Research Unit (PSIRU), based within Greenwich Business School at the University of Greenwich, offers opportunities for researchers, trade unionists, and activists to develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to advance progressive public policies and strengthen public services. Explore our study and training opportunities below and become part of a global community committed to defending, democratising, and reclaiming public services.
PSIRU Summer School
Practical research training for trade unionists and activists
PSIRU Knowledge Hub
Continued learning and resources for PSIRU alumni
Study a PhD with PSIRU
Pursue doctoral research with PSIRU academics
PSIRU Summer School
The PSIRU Summer School: Skills for Reclaiming Public Ownership is an annual international training programme that strengthens the analytical and strategic capacity of trade unionists and activists to defend and democratise public services.
It equips participants with practical tools to expose corporate power, develop public-ownership alternatives, and build effective campaigns for a just transition.
The PSIRU Summer School contributes directly to trade union revitalisation by:
- Training a new generation of younger trade union activists;
- Building bridges between trade union and climate justice movements; and
- Creating a shared global learning space where evidence becomes a tool for organising.
Take a look back at the 2026 Summer School.
Updates about the 2027 Summer School will be published soon. In the meantime, contact psiru@greenwich.ac.uk to enquire.
PSIRU Knowledge Hub
The PSIRU Knowledge Hub is an online learning platform for Summer School alumni. It provides access to videos, learning materials, research tools, and practical resources.
The Hub supports continued learning, knowledge-sharing, and the application of research skills beyond the Summer School, helping participants put their learning into practice in their organisations and campaigns.
The Hub is currently accessible exclusively to Summer School alumni, but broader developments are on the horizon.
Study a PhD with PSIRU
Interested in undertaking doctoral research related to public services, public ownership, or other areas of PSIRU’s expertise? You can pursue a PhD at the University of Greenwich under the supervision of a PSIRU academic, becoming part of our research community and benefiting from opportunities to engage in PSIRU’s research, activities, and international networks.
PSIRU academics are based across different departments within Greenwich Business School. Depending on your chosen supervisor and research area, you will enrol on a relevant PhD programme within the School. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD with PSIRU, we encourage you to explore the profiles of our academic team and contact a potential supervisor informally to discuss your research interests and opportunities for supervision.
The programme pages linked below provide general information on the University’s entry requirements, fees, and the application process for related programmes; your specific research topic can be developed in collaboration with your supervisor.
• Accounting and Finance, MPhil/PhD
• Business Practice, MPhil/PhD
• Business, MPhil/PhD
• Economics, MPhil/PhD
• Human Resources & Organisational Behaviour, MPhil/PhD
Occasional PhD scholarships and bursaries may be available and will be advertised on this website. Prospective students are also encouraged to explore the University’s PhD funding information to consider funding options.
Our PhD community: Spotlighting PSIRU PhD researchers and their projects – coming soon