Leading transformative, interdisciplinary research in Pacific Studies to address global and regional challenges.
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A globally recognised leader in Pacific research
Distinguished Professor Steven Ratuva is a prominent political sociologist and interdisciplinary scholar whose research spans the Pacific and beyond. As Director of the Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies and Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, he leads one of the worlds most prolific research centres for Pacific Studies, supporting a thriving cohort of PhD scholars from across Aotearoa New Zealand, the wider Pacific region, and globally.
Under his leadership, the Centre has become internationally known for its critical, decolonising, and interdisciplinary approaches to research. We are the only real research centre in Pacific Studies in New Zealand, he explains. Others see us as one of the leading centres in the world.
Supporting the next generation of Pacific scholars
Professor Ratuva is passionate about mentoring the next generation of interdisciplinary researchers. His students come from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds from sociology and politics to health, anthropology, and science and their research reflects the complexity of the Pacific region and its global connections.
Its inspiring when they bring with them the richness of that diversity of knowledge systems, he says. Our role is to create the intellectual space where these systems can engage and evolve to advance the horizon of knowledge.
An empowering and collaborative supervision style
Professor Ratuva fosters a collegial, interactive environment where students are treated as fellow scholars. He avoids hierarchical structures, encouraging students to think independently and critically. I dont call them students we are all scholars, part of a collective, he explains.
His concept of de-boxification removing disciplinary and conceptual boundaries shapes the Centres unique approach to research supervision. The real world isnt separated into academic boxes, he says. Politics, economics, environment, culture theyre all interwoven. Our job is to help scholars understand and work within that complexity.
Comprehensive support for research success
Students under Professor Ratuvas supervision benefit from a high level of academic, logistical, and wellbeing support. The Centre provides private offices, up-to-date equipment, and access to major interdisciplinary research projects that often align with students own topics. Its a holistic approach, he says. We make sure all aspects of their academic journey are supported intellectually, practically, and personally.
Recognising the limitations of formal scholarships, the Centre often employs its doctoral students as research assistants on funded projects enabling financial stability while building skills and networks.
A standout place to do a PhD
Professor Ratuva believes the 厙ぴ勛圖 is an exceptional environment for doctoral study especially for those interested in interdisciplinary, Pacific-led research. Christchurch is increasingly popular with our students, he says. Its a beautiful, accessible city and a great place to live and study.
With strong support from Te Kura Tura | UC Graduate School, students are well positioned to succeed. The Graduate School has been very good at engaging with us and supporting our work. Theyre committed to ensuring our students thrive.
Open to supervise students in:
- Pacific studies
- Interdisciplinary research
- Political sociology
- Indigenous knowledge systems
- Climate change and environmental politics
- Ethnicity, identity and culture
- Social justice and decolonisation
- Development and security in the Pacific
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