funded phd programs in uk

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• Funded PhD programmes 2024 UK

Funded PhD research programmes 2025 UK

The University of Brighton regularly invites applicants for fully-funded PhD studentships across all its disciplines. 

These allow motivated, high-calibre applicants for research degrees to join our thriving academic community and contribute to our rich and innovative research environment. 

Our processes also often allow us to support promising candidates for applications to external funders and we regularly welcome self-funded applicants to programmes across all disciplines.

We will be advertising University of Brighton studentships later in the year. Meanwhile, please visit our PhD funding advice page  for current offers or see below for further general advice about applying for a funded PhD in the UK. 

Visit our PhD disciplinary programme lists

What UK PhD studentships are available ?

Depending on the discipline area, applicants for postgraduate research study may be:

• applying to work on specific, defined research projects
• applying to work with an academic department or individual with specific interests
• or applying with a self-identified research topic proposal.

When available, studentships are open to home and international students and will be given to candidates who best fulfil the promise outlined by these academic departments.

Students may like to review the funding opportunities listed at the foot of the page or visit our  PhD funding advice page  . 

Please enable targeting cookies in order to view this video content on our website, or you can watch the video on YouTube .

Can you be a researcher? Professor Bhavik Patel reassures applicants of all backgrounds that they can study for a PhD and aim for a research career. 

How do I apply for a PhD studentship?

The application for financing schemes will usually involve:  

• submitting a full application through the university's PhD application portal, our University of Brighton portal is accessible from the  PhD funded projects webpages . You will upload your research proposal as part of this process.
• The submission must include two letters of reference, academic qualifications, a proposed project approach, a personal statement and your CV (resumé).
• Shortlisted applicants are likely to be invited for interview.

What does PhD funding include?

The funding for the PhD usually covers the full fee and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus an allowance of £1,500 per year for researcher training for three years (or part-time equivalent). 

Successful candidates benefit from expert supervisory teams, a programme of postgraduate researcher development workshops and membership of specialist, interdisciplinary research centres and groups. There will be introductions to a network of relevant researchers, careers advice and opportunities for interaction within and beyond the university. Through this, our PhD students have the best start possible towards ambitious careers that make use of their research degrees.

The University of Brighton fosters research careers and will provide doctoral training, attentive and expert supervision and access to world-class laboratories and equipment. 

We are renowned as a leading applied university, with pioneer academics in disciplines from sport science to design history and applied science research that translates efficiently to the global challenge of worldwide health and wellbeing. Our strategy of 'practical wisdom' leads to real-world partnerships and beneficiaries across all disciplines while the development of community-university partnership practices have placed us among the best universities for many aspects of co-produced research and innovation.

We pride ourselves on the ways we work in partnership with those outside higher education, across the European Union and internationally. Through our research collaborations we work with a wide range of universities, both internationally and with universities in the UK. We are also founding members of two UKRI Doctoral Training Partnerships which, this year, are dealt with outside our University of Brighton studentship offer. We learn constantly from our involvement in these, and our rich resources are offered across all doctoral research programmes.

Recently the University of Brighton celebrated its performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021) and the Knowledge and Exchange Framework (KEF2023). Over 87 per cent of our submitted impact case studies in REF2021 were rated as having 'outstanding' or 'very considerable' impact beyond academia. We are dedicated to developing this quality work with new students. Read more about the review of our research and knowledge exchange performance in REF2021 . Also, read more about our KEF2023 results, which placed Brighton in the top tier for economic and social benefits .

How will you build a relationship with your supervisor? Professor Annebella Pollen and Dr Tom Ainsworth are among those offering advice. This film was made by the University of Brighton for UKRI and also features academics from other institutions.

How do I increase my chances of getting a PhD studentship?

You must be able to show your suitability for a UK research degree if you wish to apply for fully-funded studentships.

This includes evidence either of a relevant and successful academic background or equivalent relevant professional/expert background in the applied subject area. Applicants from overseas will also have to fulfil any English language and visa requirements.

This will be true for studentships in the UK across most of the UK universities. It is usual for applicants either to have completed (or be about to complete) a masters degree, have an exceptional undergraduate record and references, or demonstrate the equivalent scholarly potential.  

Supervisory staff and research students at the University of Brighton consider how important diverse thinking and inclusive practice are to their doctoral studies.

Can I get PhD funding at the University of Brighton?

We have a long-standing annual programme of funded PhD opportunities across all our disciplines, including several rooted in research council (UKRI) partnerships .

The initiatives allow postgraduate study for UK-based students as well as study in the UK for international students (depending on the PhD programme). 

We are also keen to encourage students who might be able to self-fund their doctoral studies. Studying part-time, for example, is likely to prove more affordable and more easily balanced with professional life than you'd imagine. 

We are dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive atmosphere and structure for your studies. Show us your own qualities and your suitability for programmes as they become available and we will look forward to receiving your application. 

Insitutions and funding bodies for PhD study

On the Funding pages of our website we post advice as to the regular and specific funding opportunities available through the University of Brighton, its partners and networks. 

These include  Doctoral Training Partnership  and University of Brighton PhD studentship calls,  individual studentship projects , University of Brighton  international research scholarships  and our  alumni scholarships  for current and past students. 

We also include below some of the major funding options for international students wanting to do a PhD with us, each of which may support all or part of your studies.

Worldwide international funding schemes for PhD research

The british council.

The British Council offers a search engine for UK courses, institutions (including the University of Brighton) and scholarships.

Find out more about scholarships and funding through The British Council.

The Gen Foundation

The Gen Foundation considers applicants living in all countries. It is a charitable trust which principally provides grants to students/researchers in natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology.

Find out more about grants to students and researchers from The Gen Foundation .

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is dedicated to improving the quality of life of those in need, mainly in Asia and Africa, irrespective of their origin, faith, or gender. Our multifaceted development approach aims to help communities and individuals become self-reliant.

Find out more about research funding through the Aga Khan development network .

The Open Society Foundations

The Open Society Foundations are active in more than 120 countries around the world, using grant-giving, research, advocacy, impact investment, and strategic litigation to support the growth of inclusive and vibrant democracies. The four main themes of the Open Society Foundations are climate justice, equity, expression, and justice and they will award grants and fellowships throughout the year to organisations and individuals who share those values. The Open Society Foundations look for grantees who have a vision and whose efforts will lead to lasting social change.

Find out more about postgraduate funding through The Open Society Foundations .

International Education and Financial Aid

The International Education and Financial Aid (IEFA) provides students from all over the world comprehensive information on financial aid for studying abroad. Using the IEFA website, you can easily search the IEFA database for scholarships, grants, loan programs, and other options available to help finance your international education.

Find out more about international PhD research funding through the IEFA .

The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds 

The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) awards PhD fellowships of two to three-and-a-half years to outstanding junior scientists worldwide who wish to pursue an ambitious PhD project in basic biomedical research in an internationally leading laboratory.

Find out more about the Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds fellowships .

Resource sites for international PhD research funding

Internationalstudent.com.

InternationalStudent.com is a leading online resource for international students around the world providing advice pages for studying in the USA, UK and Australia for international students, plus a dedicated study abroad center for US students who want to travel abroad.

Find out more about international study through InternationalStudent.com .

ScholarshipTab

ScholarshipTab is an online portal that connects international students to available scholarship opportunities round the world.

Find out more about the Scholarship Tab resource .

International Education and Financial Aid (IEFA)

The IEFA provides students from all over the world comprehensive information on financial aid for studying abroad. Search the IEFA database for scholarships, grants, loan programs, and other options available to help finance your international education.

Find out more from the International Education and Financial Aid website .

The European Funding Guide 

Scholarships and grants for students from the European Union

Find out more through the European Funding Guide  

The Americas: Postgraduate doctorate funding from institutions and bodies to study in the UK

• Marshall Scholarship:  Provides for United States students to study abroad.
• Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship provides for United States students to study abroad.
• American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
• Global Affairs Canada International Scholarships Program
• Canadian Centennial Scholarship Fund
• Canada's Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
• The Bolsas Lideres Estudar Program provides for Brazilian students studying in the UK .

Asia: Postgraduate doctorate funding from Asian institutions and bodies to study in the UK

The Charles Wallace Bangladesh Trust

The Charles Wallace Burma Trust

China and Hong Kong

Great Britain – China Educational Trust is a charity that promotes mutual understanding between the UK and China and aims to build long-term connections between the two countries. It delivers awards contributing towards university tuition fees and living expenses for Chinese nationality students studying for a PhD in any subject at a UK university.

Great Britain China Centre Chinese Student Awards  offers scholarships of up to £3,000 for citizens of China and Hong Kong studying for a PhD in any subject at a UK university

The Hong Kong People Association (HKPA)  aims to provide financial aids for further university education to students from Hong Kong who are not able to afford international tuition fees. 

The Charles Wallace India Trust  offers PhD funding for study in the arts, heritage conservation or the humanities.

The Inlaks India Foundation

The JN Tata Endowment award funds 90 to 100 scholars across disciplines ranging from the sciences to management, law and commerce and the fine arts.

The KC Mahindra Education Trust

The Persia Educational Foundation Abdolreza Ansari Scholarship   is designed to support the education of students of Iranian descent enrolled in a Master or Doctorate programme in human rights or public service in the UK.

Momeni Iranian Financial Assistance Scholarships  offer partial funding scholarships for international students of Iranian descent towards a PhD in any subject.

The Kenneth Lindsay Scholarship Trust

The Anglo-Jewish Association (AJA)  provides funding for Jewish students to study a Masters or PhD in the UK.

The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Advanced Studies  funds students of macroeconomics with a view to them working at the International Monetary Fund.

The Charles Wallace Pakistan Trust

Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan . The HEC offers government scholarships for Pakistani students to study abroad in various countries, including the UK.

Saudi Arabia

The Cultural Bureau of the Embassy of Saudi Arabia (SACB)  offers scope for full tuition fees and supporting fees for PhD level study.

Agency for Science, Technology and Research

The Thai Office of Educational Affairs 

Europe: Postgraduate doctorate funding from European institutions and bodies to study in the UK

The European Funding Guide  - Scholarships and grants in the EU.

France -  Entente Cordiale scholarships for postgraduate studies  provide funding to help students enrolling for a Masters or a PhD qualification in the UK or in France.

Italy -  Il Circolo Italian Cultural Association is a UK-registered charity based in London with the mission to support deserving students with awards and scholarships.

Norway - Lanekassen  - The Norwegian student loans and grants awarding body supports Norwegian students studying overseas.

Scandinavia - Fundraising.how  - article database offering funding advice for Scandinavian students.

Sweden - CSN -  loans and grants for Swedish students studying overseas.

Australia: funding for PhD study in the UK

The Australia Day Foundation  offers grants to young Australians for fees and course materials.

Africa: funding for PhD study in the UK

Sudan -  The Gordon Memorial College Trust Fund (GMCTF)

• Postgraduate
• PhD and Professional Doctorates

PhD opportunities

Fully funded phd studentships.

Our mission is to create lasting, meaningful change throughout the world, and with our funded PhD studentships, your research can be a key part of us achieving that goal.

What is a studentship?

A studentship is like a scholarship but for a research degree at the university, helping to fund your research project. Finance shouldn’t be a barrier to delivering world-leading research, that's why we run an annual fully funded PhD studentship competition, to recruit talented researchers from across the world.

Doctoral research that encourages change and produces real-world impacts is more important than ever. A doctoral degree is more than just a thesis: it is an opportunity to realise your potential as a researcher, to develop your passion and knowledge in a community that values progress. Get support for your research with a NTU Studentship.

Applications for our 2024 studentships have now closed. The scheme usually opens in October. Sign up for emails to be notified of the next release and to keep up to date with research funding.

Discover our PhD opportunities that drive innovation and delivers real-world impact. Browse our PhD projects, or submit your own proposal.

Professional Doctorates

Make an impact with world-leading and award-winning research at Nottingham Trent University.

PhD fees and funding

Find out more about the fees and funding options available for research study at Nottingham Trent University.

How to apply for a PhD

Everything you need to know about applying to study at the NTU Doctoral School.

Re:shaping re:search - why join NTU?

With world-class facilities, dedicated doctoral support, and a growing portfolio of interdisciplinary and collaborative research programmes — all delivered alongside our worldwide family of academic and industry partners — NTU is the place to truly re:alise your potential.

We offer a unique Doctoral Education, Training and Development programme to support the growth of all our doctoral candidates, in everything from academic writing and academic software to healthy research practices. We support our candidates throughout their doctoral journey, enabling them to reach their potential as experts in their field.

As a two-time recipient of the Queens Anniversary Prize — the most prestigious national award for research outputs — 86% of our work has been judged as ‘world-leading’or ‘internationally excellent.’* We want to continue building this reputation for research excellence by taking a themed approach to addressing the world’s most pressing problems — the key questions that span business, the arts, science, sustainability, healthcare, politics, and the environment. We’re calling this new approach Re:search Re:imagined

* Latest data, Research Excellence Framework 2021

A diverse community

"I chose to pursue a PhD because I've always been intellectually curious". Hear about Richards's doctoral experience.

We’re committed to removing barriers to doctoral education — an ambition reflected in the award of joint funding to improve access and participation for black, Asian and minority ethnic groups in PGR study. Our Doctoral School is a diverse and highly inclusive community; it enables its members to become confident, skilled researchers, regardless of their backgrounds.

Join us to help fulfil our boldest ambitions — to value ideas, create opportunities, embrace sustainability, empower people, enrich society, and connect on a global scale. We believe in applied, meaningful research that delivers better answers. Be part of a community that champions your voice and experience.

By breaking down the financial barriers to PhD study, our fully funded studentships ensure you’ll have the freedom and confidence to deliver the kind of research that truly matters.

Re:searchers Re:vealed

Here at NTU, our researchers come from a variety of backgrounds, and they all have a powerful story to tell. In this series, we share their stories.

Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

• a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
• support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

• conference attendance
• language training
• overseas research visits
• internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

• non-medical personal assistance
• specialist equipment
• extra travel costs
• general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

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PhD studentships

If you're looking to get PhD funding for a specific research project or field of study, Doctoral studentships can provide you with either a partially or fully-funded PhD

Who awards PhD studentships?

PhD studentships are most commonly awarded by the UK's seven Research Councils in the form of Research Council grants , with research funding overseen by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Individual UK universities also offer scholarships and bursaries to PhD students, while many professional bodies fund Doctoral research in collaboration with these academic institutions.

For instance, research awards are offered by the following engineering organisations:

• Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) - QUEST scholarships
• Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
• The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
• Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng)

Additionally, CASE studentships (formerly known as Cooperative Awards in Science and Engineering) can be part-funded by any non-academic body in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) . These four-year PhDs require the student to work at the organisation for at least three months.

You can also apply for funded PhD opportunities through many charities, foundations and trusts, including:

• Action Medical Research
• Alzheimer's Society
• British Federation of Women Graduates (BFWG)
• British Heart Foundation (BHF)
• Cancer Research UK
• Diabetes UK
• Rosetrees Trust - PhD Plus
• The Leverhulme Trust
• Wellcome Trust

Before you start applying for a funded PhD, it's always a good idea to discuss this with a prospective supervisor first, as they're often able to provide tips on maximising the likelihood of receiving financial support.

How much can I receive?

Many PhD studentships, including those offered by universities, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts, provide three years' funding paid at a similar rate to the Research Council grant:

• Fees-only studentship - These cover a student's tuition fees, plus any associated project and training costs (a minimum of £4,786 per year in 2024/25).
• Full studentship - These add a non-repayable, tax-free maintenance grant known as a 'stipend'. In 2024/25, this is worth a minimum of £19,237 and it can be used towards living costs - see UKRI - Find studentships and Doctoral training .

For example, at The University of Manchester, the School of Social Sciences PhD studentship includes tuition fees for three-and-a-half years and a maintenance grant of £18,622 (2023/24 rate) per year for living expenses, plus associated research costs - such as fieldwork and attending conferences - from the Research Training Support Grant.

However, you should be aware that some PhD studentship recipients are required to teach undergraduates. While this provides an excellent opportunity to gain vital employability skills, it can also be hugely time-consuming. You must be satisfied that tutoring won't negatively affect the quality of your research before accepting your place.

Is my programme eligible for a PhD studentship?

PhD studentships can start at any time of the year, but most begin in September, October or January.

Certain types of PhD, for example professional Doctorates, may not be eligible for a PhD studentship. The same applies to part-time or distance learning options.

Am I eligible?

PhD studentships typically demand that applicants have a Bachelors degree at 2:1 or above, plus a relevant Masters degree or professional experience at that level of study.

Those who already possess a PhD are often ineligible, while some PhD studentships are limited to students fitting certain criteria - for example, those from a disadvantaged background, from a certain country or of a certain ethnicity.

If you're a European Union (EU) national, you'll need to have settled or pre-settled status under the government's EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for student finance in this country - and this includes PhD studentships.

How do I apply for a PhD studentship?

The application process can be lengthy, and competition is fierce.

Some PhD students will be automatically considered for financial support once they've been accepted by an institution, but many are required to make separate PhD funding applications. These are usually made directly to the university - even for those studentships from Research Councils, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts.

You'll typically be asked for your PhD application form, a research proposal , a cover letter and your references. After the institution has reviewed your application, you may be invited to interview.

Throughout this process, the university will scrutinise what you'll bring to the institution. Applicants at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), for example, are judged on:

• the quality of their research project and how it connects with research currently being undertaken at the institution
• how appropriate the supervisory team is
• their calibre, academic qualifications and academic/research experience
• whether the research can contribute towards the Research Excellence Framework (REF), meaning that interdisciplinary research will be preferred.

How do I increase my chances of getting a PhD studentship?

You can improve your chances of success by:

• asking a friend or family member to proofread your application
• carefully choosing your referees, ensuring that they'll speak positively of you
• discussing your draft application with a relevant academic
• explaining how your work will be unique and innovative
• following the funding body's guidance regarding word counts and formatting.

What other PhD funding is available?

If you're unsuccessful with your PhD studentship application, you could consider:

• crowdfunding
• employer sponsorship
• PhD loans .

Find out more

• Explore 5 routes to getting a Doctorate .
• Read about 5 challenges faced by PhD students .
• Consider what to do next after completing a PhD .

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Find the latest PhD scholarships available at universities across the UK and globally. We regularly advertise new fully-funded PhD studentships and PhD scholarships in STEM, the humanities, business and management studies and the social sciences plus many more.

Find your ideal funded PhD opportunity in Engineering and Technology, Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Languages and Literature or Biological sciences here. Updated regularly with new PhD opportunities across all disciplines.

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Welcome to jobs.ac.uk’s PhD Studentship section. Here you can find the latest PhD scholarships available at universities across the UK and globally. We regularly advertise new fully-funded PhD studentships and PhD scholarships in STEM, the humanities, business and management studies and the social sciences plus many more. Find your ideal funded PhD opportunity in Engineering and Technology, Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Languages and Literature or Biological sciences here. Updated regularly with new PhD opportunities across all disciplines.

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Wondering if a PhD is right for you? What is it like to take on a PhD? What can you do with a PhD once you’ve finished? We have lots of advice on all these topics in our career advice section.

What Can You Do With a PhD?:

Are you thinking about a PhD as the next stage in your educational and professional development? It’s an exciting road to travel with many potential benefits and opportunities. But you have to earn it first so considering what’s involved is important.

What is it really like to do a PhD?

Watch our vlog series, where real PhD students from all walks of life and various levels of study recorded themselves to showcase what undertaking a PhD is actually like.

PhD Funding – A Checklist of Possible Sources

Funding bodies support PhD students in different ways. Some pay course fees only, some include a stipend (maintenance costs) or travel expenses, and others offer a one-off award to ease the financial burden of academic study.

Make sure you never miss out on the perfect PhD opportunity by signing up to our jobs by email service , and for more helpful articles head to our career advice site .

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PhD Studentship in Nanoscale Diamond Quantum Sensors for In-Situ Detection of Reactive Radicals in Fuel Cell Membranes

Project title: Nanoscale Diamond Quantum Sensors for In-Situ Detection of Reactive Radicals in Fuel Cell Membranes

Supervision: Dr Helena Knowles (Cavendish Laboratory) in collaboration with industry partner Johnson Matthey (JM).

A fully funded PhD under the EPSRC CASE conversion studentship is available at home student fee rates in the Department of Physics, Cavendish Laboratory, with a starting date of 5 January or 17 April 2025.

JCTS in Farm Animal Health and Production

Scholarship award: £18,370.00 per annum (Tax Free Stipend)

Start date: October 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter, for 12 months

PhD Studentship: Improving the efficiency of Hydrogen generation in electrolysis

A fully funded PhD studentship is available under the supervision of Prof Colm Durkan, with a start date of 1 January 2025. Funding will cover the student's stipend and tuition fees at the UK rate.

Junior Clinical Training Scholar (JCTS) in Small Animal Studies x 6

SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: £18,370.00 PER ANNUM INCLUDING ACCOMMODATION (BILLS INCLUDED IN PACKAGE)

Applications are invited for this one-year post-graduate training programme based in the Queen's Veterinary School Small Animal Hospital to start in December 2024.

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Fully Funded Ph.D Scholarships For International Students 2024-2025

This page contain fully funded Ph.D scholarships for international Students 2024-2025 to study abroad

Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship 2025 (Fully Funded)

Pursue your studies in London, UK. Good news! Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship is currently open. In this article, we will explain this scholarship, its benefits, and the step-by-step application process in detail. Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship

Published: 2024-07-04 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: Not Specified

University of Glasgow MRes/PhD in Economics Studentship 2024

The Adam Smith Business School offers a prestigious combined MRes/PhD training scheme in Economics. It starts with the 2 years MRes programme. Candidates who complete the MRes at a sufficiently high level will be given priority for admission into the 3-4 years PhD stage. The University of Glasgow

Published: 2024-07-01 Type: PhD Study in: Glasgow Deadline: July 1, 2024

2024 MRes/PhD in Economics Studentship at University of Glasgow

Published: 2024-06-28 Type: PhD Study in: Glasgow Value: £15,245 Deadline: July 1, 2024

University of Birmingham 2024 The Kennedy Trust MB-PhD Programme 2024

The Kennedy Trust for Rheumatology Researchwas founded in 1965 with a mission to achieve a meaningful impact on the development of cures and preventative treatment for musculoskeletal and inflammatory diseases. Mindful of the importance of clinician scientists and the key role they play in tran

Published: 2023-10-31 Type: PhD Study in: Birmingham Deadline: January 19, 2024

University of Warwick 2024 PAIS PhD Studentship

The Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Warwick is pleased to announce a competition for PhD scholarships. These department funded scholarships are aimed at any candidate starting their PhD in PAIS in October 2024, or any current PAIS PhD candidate in their fir

Published: 2023-10-26 Type: PhD Study in: Coventry Deadline: December 8, 2023

Oxford University Clarendon Scholarship 2023

Clarendon not only offers over 200 new, fully-funded scholarships each year to assist outstanding graduate scholars, but also the opportunity to join one of the most active, internationally diverse, and multidisciplinary communities at Oxford.

Published: 2023-10-23 Type: PhD Study in: Oxford Deadline: Not Specified

Techne AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentships at University Of Westminster 2023

Techne is now welcoming applications for fully-funded studentships across the arts and humanities beginning in autumn 2024. The University of Westminster is one of nine universities that make up the AHRC-funded Techne Doctoral Training Partnership. Techne supports outstanding students pursuing

Published: 2023-10-17 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: December 1, 2023

Imperial College London President's PhD Scholarship 2024

The President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London offer exceptional undergraduate and Master’s students a remarkable opportunity to pursue a fully-funded 3.5-year PhD program at one of the world's renowned research institutions. This prestigious scholarship not only covers

Published: 2023-10-05 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: April 3, 2024

University of Birmingham School of Mathematics - School Scholarships 2023

The School of Mathematics is keen to attract well-motivated and able students to engage in research mathematics and invite applications for scholarships from those students who have applied for a place on the Mathematics PhD programme. The awards are funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences R

Published: 2023-07-25 Type: PhD Study in: Birmingham Deadline: August 1, 2023

School of Engineering Scholarships at University of Birmingham 2023

The School of Engineering offers a wealth of world-leading research opportunities to choose from, where you will work with world-leading academics and be part of a thriving postgraduate community. The school provides a number of funding opportunities on yearly basis to the best applicants.

Published: 2023-07-25 Type: PhD Study in: Birmingham Deadline: Not Specified

PhD Scholarship in Law and Language at university of Birmingham 2023

Applications are invited for a funded (fees-only) PhD project in the field of Law and Language, under the supervision of Professor Karen McAuliffe. Project proposals may focus on any aspect of the relationship between law and language, including, but not limited to: multilingual law; multilingual ju

Published: 2023-07-21 Type: PhD Study in: Birmingham Deadline: July 31, 2023

Brunel University London 2023 Sustainable routes for the recycling of lithium ion batteries

Applications are invited for one full-time PhD Studentship within the Department of Chemical Engineering funded by Brunel University London. The PhD studentship is for a period of three (3) years effective 1 October 2023 or 1 January 2024. The successful applicant will receive an annual stipend (bur

Published: 2023-07-14 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: August 31, 2023

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Daphne Jackson fellowship 2023

These fellowships are for those looking to return to a research career after a break of two or more years for family, health or caring reasons. The aim is to give participants the confidence and skills they need to make a successful return to research. They provide an opportunity to balance a per

Published: 2023-07-12 Type: PhD Deadline: Not Specified

President's PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London 2023

If you are a high performing undergraduate or Master's student and have a strong desire to undertake a PhD programme at a world-class research institution, a President's PhD Scholarship could provide you with the outstanding opportunity to receive full funding for tuition fees and

Published: 2023-07-03 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: Not Specified

Faculty of Arts and Humanities Partnerships PhD Scholarship at University of Essex 2023

The Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the University of Essex is offering one PhD research Scholarship for a student to participate in a joint project with Unilever Art, Archives and Records Management (UARM). The successful applicant will receive a full PhD scholarship to support you, includin

Published: 2023-06-08 Type: PhD Study in: Colchester Deadline: Not Specified

University College London (UCL) Dawes-UCL Secret scholarships 2023

These scholarships are available for pre-set topics or for open topics. Pre-set topics are specific topics that have been suggested by supervisors here at UCL and which they will be happy to supervise. Open topics are topics proposed by the applicant. Further details are below. Ple

Published: 2023-06-08 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: Not Specified

The University of Sussex 2023 PhD studentship in the Development of a Quantum Microwave Sensor for the Neutrino Mass Measurement 2023

The Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies is focused on fundamental quantum science and on the development of novel quantum technologies. It hosts several experimental and theoretical groups that cover an extensive research area, such as microwave quantum sensors, quantum computation and

Published: 2023-05-28 Type: PhD Study in: Brighton Deadline: August 1, 2023

Swansea University UK 2023 Research Scholarships - Sports Sciences/Biomechanics

Traumatic knee injuries such as those to the meniscus are common in sports and contribute considerably to the Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) global burden of disease. Surgical interventions account for 63.8% of meniscus injury cases and represent a significant load on national health systems. Despite sur

Published: 2023-05-04 Type: PhD Study in: Swansea Deadline: June 1, 2023

Best UK Scholarships

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• King's College London 2024 Norman Spink Scholarship

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King's College London

International phd scholarships.

King's College London is one of the world's leading research institutions with a diverse research community producing internationally recognised work. King's and the Centre for Doctoral Studies are dedicated to attracting, retaining, and developing top international postgraduate research talent to study alongside our renowned academic supervisors.

If you are interested in a postgraduate research degree (MPhil/PhD) at King's. there are a range of funding opportunities for international postgraduate researchers at King's, including:

• Joint PhD Programme Funding
• King's China Council Scholarships

You can learn more about these opportunities below. You can also access our postgraduate funding database to search all currently open funding competitions at King's.

Postgraduate Funding Database

A link to PG Funding database

Joint PhD Scholarships

Three scholarships are available for the 2023/24 academic year for students applying to joint PhD programmes run in collaboration with the University of Hong Kong, National University of Singapore or the University of Sao Paulo, with King's as their home institution.

The King's Joint PhD Scholarship provides full tuition fees, stipend and an annual research grant.

Download the guidance for the 2023/24 Joint PGR Scholarships .

Find out more about the Joint PhD Programmes available at the National University of Singapore, University of Hong Kong, and University of Sao Paolo by visiting the International Education webpage.

• Applications close 26 March 2023

King’s-China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship programme (K-CSC) 2023-24

King's College London and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) hold an agreement to jointly fund PhD students to pursue research degrees at King's College London.

As part of the agreement, successful students will receive a scholarship that covers the tuition fee, an annual living allowance that includes overseas student health cover, a return airfare to London and visa application fees.

Please be aware that students funded through this scheme must abide by any additional terms and conditions set by the CSC. Scholars will be required to enter into a legally binding agreement with the CSC before they are able to take up the scholarship. If there are any significant developments that could affect/hamper a scholar's expected completion of the PhD, scholars are advised to get in touch with the Education Section in the Chinese Embassy.

A considerable number of K-CSC scholarship awards are available for the 2023-24 competition.

• Applications close 02 January 2023

Find full details on the KCL Funding Database.

Useful links

Postgraduate English Language Requirements

Find out more about our English Language Requirements.

Fully Funded PhD Programs in the United Kingdom

Last updated February 28, 2022

As part of the series on How to Fully Fund Your PhD , here is a list of PhD programs in the United Kingdom (UK) that offer full funding. Steeped in a rich history of academic excellence, the UK is known for its quality universities that are ranked highly in a variety of fields.

“Full funding” is a financial aid pack for students that includes full tuition remission and an annual stipend or salary for the duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Full funding is not universal, so it’s a good idea to research the financial aid offerings of all the potential PhD programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools.

You can also find several external fellowships in the  ProFellow database  for graduate and doctoral study, including opportunities for funding for dissertation research, fieldwork, language study and summer work experiences.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Imperial College Business School, PhD in Business (London, United Kingdom): Every student on the Doctoral programme is offered full funding, including a full tuition fee waiver (Home/EU or Overseas fees) plus a living stipend for up to five years. The Business School has the following research departments: Analytics & Operations, Economics & Public Policy, Finance, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Strategy & Organisational Behaviour.

London Business School, PhD in Business (London, United Kingdom): All students are fully funded on admission to the Programme. This includes a tuition fee waiver and a generous stipend.

University College London, PhD in Theoretical Neuroscience and Machine Learning (London, United Kingdom): Students at the Gatsby Unit study toward a PhD in either machine learning or theoretical neuroscience. Gatsby PhD studentships cover the cost of tuition at the appropriate rate and include a tax-free stipend of £22,500 per annum. Full funding is available to all students, regardless of nationality.

University of Liverpool, PhD in Clinical Psychology  (Liverpool, UK): Available to EU citizens only, the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is a 3-year full-time programme fully funded by the National Health Service (NHS). Trainees are registered postgraduate students in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences and employed within Mersey Care NHS Trust.

University of St Andrews, School of Physics and Astronomy, PhD in Physics  (St Andrews, Scotland): Fully funded scholarships are available for students in all research areas of the school and last the duration of the degree. Studentships are also available to national and international students, and all awards include full payment of fees and a living stipend.

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved.

Related Posts:

• Fully Funded PhD Programs in History
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Mathematics
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in School Psychology
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Accounting
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Cinema and Media Studies

Fully Funded PhD Programs

How to Stop Procrastinating and Get Started on Your Applications

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PhD funding

Create ground-breaking research with our funded PhD opportunities and PhD scholarships for UK and international students.

We add PhD scholarships throughout the year so keep checking this page for updates.

Find PhD funding and scholarships

Browse all available awards .

Other PhD funding sources

PhD funding sources for international students

Doctoral training centres and partnerships

You may be eligible for a PhD loan of up to £28,673. Read more about  PhD loans .

The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding

The University also subscribes to the The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding Online . The Guide contains a huge database of funding opportunities, comprehensive guidance written by successful applicants, and numerous tools to help you prepare a winning grant application.

If you are a current Sussex student you can register for the Guide with your Sussex email address. If you are a prospective postgraduate student who has applied to Sussex, please use the following authentication PIN to register for the Guide: 6789

Our Doctoral Training Centres and Partnerships

We have scholarships and studentships funded by the following doctoral training centres and partnerships :

• be.AI Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarships  (Leverhulme Trust)
• CHASE (funded by AHRC - the Arts and Humanities Research Council)
• The Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme: From Sensation to Perception and Awareness
• Sussex STFC studentships (funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council)
• DISCnet Centre for Doctoral Training (funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council)
• SeNSS – the South-East Network for Social Sciences (funded by the Economic and Social Research Council - ESRC)
• SoCoBio Doctoral Training Partnership (funded by BBSRC – the Biotechnology and Biosciences Research Council)
• Sussex EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
• UKRI Food Systems

Our doctoral training partnerships and centres funded by the UK Research Councils (UK Research and Innovation) are open to UK and International students according to the UKRI student eligibility rules . Up to 30% of each cohort of students may be International, but International PhD fees are not covered by the scholarships.

For information on eligibility, please check the current UKRI guidance .

Sussex PhD funding partners

We have scholarships and studentships funded by:

• CHASE (funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council)
• Science and Technology Facilities Council
• South-East Network for Social Sciences (funded by the Economic and Social Research Council).

Ways to pay for your research, training and living costs

You can also:

• look for a part-time job (on campus or in Brighton & Hove) - you may have working restrictions if you have a visa
• teach other students (this depends on your project and where you're based, so check with your supervisor or research group)
• apply for researcher funding while you study through the Doctoral School.

You may be  eligible for the Disabled Students Allowance  If you have a learning difficulty, health problem or disabiity. Email  [email protected]  for information on disability support.

You might also be interested in:

• PhD research support
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PhD scholarships

Pursue your passions

with a fully funded PhD

Whether you’re a UK, EU or international student, you’ll find exciting opportunities to start your postgraduate research journey with us in 2024. You can apply for one of our funded PhD studentships across a range of subject areas.

Explore funded PhDs by subject area

Area studies /history.

• From Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green: Empowering Port Communities in the Global South (Peru)

Funding information and eligibility 

Candidates applying for these projects may be eligible to compete for one of a number of bursaries available – some bursaries fund tuition fees only, while others cover tuition fees at the UK rate for three years plus a stipend in line with the UKRI rate ( £19,237 for 2024/25).

Most projects are open to applications from UK, EU and international students unless otherwise specified in the project advert. Please check your eligibility before submitting a formal application. 

Costs for student visa and immigration health surcharge are not covered by these scholarships. For further guidance and advice visit our international and EU students  ‘Visa FAQs’ page .

How to apply

1. Select a subject area from the list above where you will find eligible project areas/projects and entry criteria. 

2. Get in touch with the named project supervisor to discuss your interest before you apply. Forwarding your CV and an outline of your research idea would help speed up the process.

3. When you are ready to apply, use the online application form link found in the project advert, making sure you submit all the required documentation before the application deadline. 

Please note : If you want to be considered for a funded PhD opportunity you must quote the project code provided when applying.  E mail applications are not accepted.

Application deadline

Application deadlines vary depending on the funding scheme. 

What happens next?

We’ll review your application and if you’re shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an interview. Shortlisting and interviews will take place after the application deadline.

Find out more

Postgraduate research proposal guide.

If you are considering undertaking a postgraduate research degree, follow our step by step guide to writing the perfect research proposal. 

Find a PhD Supervisor

If you've already got your own research idea, start looking for a supervisor whose research interests match yours.

Postgraduate Open Days

Come to our next event to talk to our course leaders, researchers, expert support teams and current students. 

Why I chose postgrad research at Portsmouth

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LSE PhD Studentships

It was a huge honour to receive funding from such a prestigious institution

For 2024 entry, LSE will be offering studentships to new PhD students, in 2023 this was 88, in the form of LSE PhD Studentships, LSE DTP  ESRC Studentships  and London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP)  Studentships.

The awards are open to high calibre students of all nationalities studying across all research areas at the School.

Eligibility

LSE PhD Studentships are tenable for four years and cover full fees and an annual stipend, which for 2024 entry is £21,237. They are available for UK and international students undertaking research in any LSE discipline, with annual renewal subject to satisfactory academic performance.

These awards will be made solely on the basis of outstanding academic merit and research potential. This relates both to your past academic record and to an assessment of your likely aptitude to complete a PhD in your chosen topic in the time allocated.

How to apply

Academic departments nominate students for consideration by a School panel for all PhD funding opportunities they may be eligible for. There is no separate application for any of these studentships.

To be considered for this funding, you must submit your complete application for admission to LSE by a specific date. This date differs by academic department. Refer to the individual programme page for the relevant deadline information.  Find your graduate programme .

• deadline for the research programme in the Law School for 2024 entry: 1 December 2023
• deadline for the research programme in the Department of Economics for 2024 entry (including PhD Studentships and ESRC funding: 14 December 2023
• funding deadline for first round of PhD Studentships and for ESRC funding for 2024 entry: 15 January 2024
• London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP) PhD Scholarships  deadline: 26 January 2024, 17:00 GMT
• funding deadline for second round of PhD Studentships deadline for 2024 entry (some departments only): 25 April 2024

Find out about ESRC Studentships .

More information on how to apply for a place on a PhD programme .

Student stories

"I received an LSE PhD Studentship, which covers both my tuition and living expenses. It was a huge honour to receive funding from such a prestigious institution and without this support it would have been impossible for me to pursue my PhD."

Katherine Furman East London, South Africa MPhil/PhD Philosophy LSE PhD Studentship

ESRC Studentships Scholarships for PhD study and master's linked to a PhD

How to apply The application process, UCAS and when to apply

Undergraduate fees and funding Details on available scholarships, bursaries, loans and tuition fees

Graduate fees and funding Details on available scholarships, bursaries, loans and tuition fees

Contact us Get in touch with the Financial Support Office

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Imperial College London Imperial College London

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Looking for funding?

Use our scholarships search tool to look for available scholarships. Also explore our latest funded PhD vacancies .

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the most common type of doctoral degree and the highest level of academic qualification you can achieve. 

It normally takes between three and four years of full-time work to complete. It is also possible to undertake a PhD part time, over five to six years.

The main activity of a PhD is to carry out an original research project under the direction of one or more supervisors, to be written up as a thesis.

Different routes to achieving a PhD

There are a number of ways to achieving a PhD at Imperial:

• by undertaking a course of study based on your own research proposal
• by joining a research project that comes with funding attached (known as a studentship)
• by combining it with Master's study in an integrated route that typically lasts four years

Pursuing your own research idea

To search for PhD opportunities based on your own research proposal you first need to identify a research group within Imperial whose area of expertise best matches your idea.

Use the links below to search the different PhD opportunities within our academic departments, centres and institutes. This includes information about current studentships and often guidance on finding a supervisor.

Our interdisciplinary approach means our expertise often spans departmental boundaries – and so do our courses – so you may find opportunities in an unexpected area of the university.

Faculty of Engineering

• Aeronautics
• Bioengineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• School of Design Engineering
• Earth Science and Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Faculty of Medicine

• Department of Brain Sciences
• Department of Immunology and Inflammation
• Department of Infectious Disease
• Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction
• Department of Surgery and Cancer
• National Heart and Lung Institute
• School of Public Health

Faculty of Natural Sciences

• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Centre for Environmental Policy

Imperial College Business School

• Doctoral programme

Centre for Languages, Culture and Communication

• PhD in Arabic, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish Studies
• PhD in science communication studies

Global Challenge institutes

We have six Global Challenge institutes, which were created to address some of society's biggest challenges.

If you have an idea for a PhD that falls within the remit of one of our Global Challenge institutes please contact them directly to discuss before making a formal application.

• Data Science Institute
• Grantham Institute – Climate Change and the Environment
• Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering
• Institute for Security Science and Technology
• Institute of Global Health Innovation

Energy Futures Lab  does not offer PhD programmes, but does deliver the  MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures .

Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies | Imperial College London-Technical University of Munich

We have recently formed  a strategic partnership in education, research and innovation  with the Technical University of Munich, one of Germany’s most international and entrepreneurial universities, producing highly ranked research, like Imperial, in science, engineering and medicine.

As part of the partnership, Imperial and TUM have launched a 'Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies' with the aim of co-developing cross-disciplinary clusters of PhD students who will have access to world-leading academic supervisors and state-of-the art facilities at both institutions.

The first round of the programme will focus on the theme of 'Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare and Robotics'.

Find out more about the Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies and apply

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Specialised doctoral training at the Manchester Institute of Education (MIE).

Attend an open day

Discover more about this subject area

PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page
• Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
• Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

• For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

Programme overview

• 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
• The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
• Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
• Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

No need to fork out US$40,000 for a PhD – here are 10 fully-funded PhD programmes

The journey to obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a long and expensive one.

From completing a diploma or A-level programme to getting a bachelor’s degree, the journey only gets more expensive as you embark on a three to seven-year journey of obtaining your PhD. 

It’s why competition for a fully-funded PhD can be fierce.

On average, the total cost of a PhD programme is somewhere between US$30,000 to US$40,000 per year, depending on where you enrol. This expense does not include the cost of living if you are moving to a different city or country to study.

Multiply that with the number of years it’ll take for you to complete your studies, and you’ll see why it’s not an easy decision to make. 

Still, there are always ways to pursue higher education at a more affordable cost. While student loans are an option, you might want to aim for a fully-funded PhD instead.

Universities are not the only ones funding your PhD. Source: AFP.

What is a fully-funded PhD programme?

A fully-funded programme usually means full tuition reimbursement and a stipend to help cover the cost of living while pursuing the degree.

However, requirements differ according to the university.

Some universities offer a “no-strings-attached” fellowship where they receive funding but do not owe the university anything aside from their research. In many cases, a student will need to work part-time for the university by providing teaching or administrative assistance which might be useful in their professional career.

It’s also important to take note that universities are not the only ones funding your PhD.

Some grants might come from government bodies to support national research objectives and train future professionals to carry them out. Others could come from independent charities that have similar goals or businesses that see potential benefits to achieve their targets.

Financial aid typically does not include the cost of living. Source: AFP.

Things to know before you attempt to secure a fully-funded PhD programme

Before we jump into introducing some fully-funded PhD programmes, let’s take a closer look at how PhD funding starts out. 

Seek advice 

Reach out to an academic advisor or supervisor for advice on the next steps to take. Chances are that they can provide suggestions or even recommendation letters. Otherwise, they can leverage on their own knowledge and networks to redirect you to a better source of information. 

If an advisor isn’t available, try reaching out to the university’s graduates to get a clearer viewpoint from someone with first-hand experience.

Many PhD projects are actually advertised with generous funding, and this is particularly so for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) projects. 

However, it doesn’t mean you won’t find funding in other subjects like education, sociology or even English. 

Be sure you don’t single out universities in your search. Explore opportunities with external parties, such as business or industry partners too. 

Build a funding portfolio

Getting into the PhD scene is competitive, more so when you’re looking to score a fully-funded PhD. To help secure funding, put together a portfolio to make your case as strong as possible. 

Similar to a resume, your portfolio should outline what you plan to study, how long for, and above all else, why you wish to take the PhD. 

This demonstrates your commitment and understanding to the subject and its industry field.

Living costs and expenses

Not all funded PhDs offer to cover your living expenses, especially if you’re an international student. But even if they do, it’s a good idea to set aside some funds for your day-to-day life.

Some fully-funded PhDs offer accommodation for up to a certain amount of years, so if you intend on staying on for a longer period of time, it may be wise to have some finances ready for living on your own.

Determine your timeframe

It’s common for PhD students to work while studying. Part-time study offers that flexibility, but it also stretches out the length of your PhD and increases your maintenance expenses. 

Carefully consider your options before deciding on a part-time or full-time PhD, especially if you’re employed or have other commitments.

Don’t feel discouraged if you’re nervous about your chances of securing a fully-funded PhD. There are many other universities and programmes that readily offer generous funding and high stipends , such as MIT and Stanford University.

These stipends often cover tuition, living expenses, and healthcare, so don’t count them out.

10 fully-funded PhD programmes to check out

1. university of debrecen.

Stipendium Hungaricum provides fully-funded scholarships for international students to study their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Debrecen . This programme was designed to support the internationalisation of higher education institutions in Hungary, as well as strengthen relationships with those abroad.

The university is one Hungary’s best, home to almost 30,000 students from over 70 countries and territories. It offers a whopping amount of over 23,000 courses with over 600 degree programmes, so you’ll be sure to find what you need here. 

Apply here .

2. University of Iowa

The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa offers a fully-funded PhD programme in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics, and marketing. 

Tuition and fees are covered, and students are provided with a generous nine-month stipend of about US$20,000. On top of that, they are provided with annual adjustments and a fantastic health insurance plan that covers up to 90% of their medical bills.

Want additional funding? Some departments provide funding for research presentations at conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research. 

Learn more here .

Columbia University prides itself on offering guaranteed housing beyond the first year. Source: Columbia University Facebook.

3. Columbia University

PhD students at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Columbia University benefit from a robust compensation and benefits package – not just for themselves, but for their dependents too.

The university provides financial support, full tuition remission, summer stipends, affordable Columbia housing, health and dental coverage, and childcare subsidies. They pride themselves on offering guaranteed housing beyond the first year – Arts and Sciences doctoral students are eligible for five academic years of student housing right from their first day.

Learn more here . 

4. Washington University in St. Louis

Doctoral students taking computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance, among other perks.

The university is home to cutting-edge degrees and offers doctoral students a chance to qualify for one of three fellowships – The Ann W. and Spencer T. Olin – Chancellor’s Fellowship , McDonnell International Scholars Academy , and the Dean’s International Award .

The university provides financial support for up to six years , as long as the student makes progress towards completion of their degree. On top of that, students receive a free Apple laptop in the latest model.

More information here .

5. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor offers generous funding to their doctoral students in engineering. Students can specialise in numerous areas of specialisation, such as aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics.

This fully-funded PhD provides students with guaranteed funding between four to six years, a monthly living stipend and a comprehensive health insurance plan. Additional funding is available from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Pursuing your PhD at the MIT Sloan School of Management demands a great deal of time, initiative, and discipline from every candidate. Only 19 students are selected from hundreds of applicants, but the rewards are worth it.

The school’s financial package will cover a period of five years guaranteed to doctoral students, given that you stand out academically. This includes a full academic year tuition, 12 terms of fellowship stipend, medical insurance, a new laptop, and a budget for conference travel or ongoing research.

Assistantship at Rice University could earn you full financial assistance. Source: Rice University Facebook.

7. Rice University

The PhD in business at Rice University is intended for those aspiring to become faculty members at business schools in prestigious research universities around the world. This assistantship could earn you full financial assistance which will come in the form of a tuition waiver and a generous stipend.

The Jones Graduate School of Business houses the PhD programme here where you can choose to focus on various areas of study including Accounting, Finance, Organisational Behaviour, and Strategic Management.

8. Brown University

Students admitted to any PhD programmes at Brown University are guaranteed five years of support including a stipend, tuition remission, health services fee, and health insurance subsidy.

There are also additional forms of financial aid too like federal loans specially for US citizens and permanent residents, private educational loans for both domestic and international students, and resources for scholarships, fellowships, and grants.

More here .

The University of Pennsylvania offers two ways for students to get full funding. Source: University of Pennsylvania Facebook.

9. University of Pennsylvania

There are two ways for Penn Graduate School of Education students to get full funding at the University of Pennsylvania .

The first is through the Dean’s Fellowship and Research Apprenticeship which includes tuition and fees, health insurance, and a living stipend. Students would also receive a fellowship and research apprenticeship package which covers four years of study.

The other is the IES Predoctoral Training Programme which offers financial and skill-building support to selected applicants. This multi-year training programme is designed to prepare PhD students committed to learning rigorous methods for conducting research.

10. Yale University

At Yale University , the School of Nursing offers fully-funded PhD degrees to its students. There are three types of scholarships available through programmes namely the Merit-Based Programme, Need-Based Programme, and Community Scholars Programme.

The Merit-Based Programme is awarded through admissions. All incoming students, both domestic and international, can sign up where they will go through a holistic review process. The Need-Based Programme is for US citizens and permanent residents.

Lastly, the new Community Scholars Programme provides complete remission of tuition, fees, and health insurance along with an annual stipend for selected students.

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• Schools & departments

Fully funded 4 Year PhD studentships in Biomedical Sciences

Applications are invited from outstanding students wishing to pursue a 4 Year PhD studentship in Biomedical Sciences from September 2024.

Based in the Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh you will have the opportunity to work with leading research groups while also developing your skills in transnational education. The studentships are fully funded for 4 Years including full fees (home or overseas), UKRI-level stipend and generous research costs. 

Alongside their PhD project, students will be supported in the development of their skills in TNE towards AFHEA accreditation. This will include short (typically 2 visits totalling 4-6 weeks per year) research and educational visits to our ZJE Joint Institute in China supported by their PhD supervisory team.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss projects with prospective supervisors before submitting their application.

Candidates must meet University of Edinburgh PhD requirements including English language proficiency and acceptance is conditional on award of 2:1 degree classification (or similar) in a Biomedical related undergraduate Honours degree programme.

How to apply

To apply, email a single PDF document to [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 29th March 2024  that includes:

• a 1 page statement of why you wish to pursue a PhD, including a ranking of up to 3 projects you are interested in  f ollowing your discussion with prospective supervisor(s)
• a 1 page statement of how developing your transnational educational skills as part of your PhD will support your longer term career aspirations.  

Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity to meet further with prospective PhD supervisors of their ranked projects at interview.

List of PhD projects

Defining the role of rna-binding protein pabpc4 in regulating gene expression to maintain lipid homeostasis (primary supervisor: dr matthew brook), project location .

QMRI, Bioquarter

[email protected]

Name, location and email of co-applicants (Supervisory Team)

Prof. Nicola Gray (CRH/IRR) Email: [email protected]

Prof. Robert Semple (CVS) Email: [email protected]

Project description

PABPC4 is a poorly characterised RNA-binding protein whose genetic locus is strongly associated in human genetic association studies to metabolic disease traits (e.g. cholesterol and triglyceride levels, type 2 diabetes), with some associations sexually dimorphic. Population genetic studies (gnomAD) moreover indicate clear selection against heterozygous loss of function in the wider population. PABPC4 is a close homologue of PABPC1, which binds to mRNA poly(A) tails and regulates multiple facets of mRNA translation and turnover, but PABPC4 molecular functions, RNA targets, and role in mammalian physiology remain to be determined.

Importantly, our (Brook/Gray) unpublished work has revealed sexually-dimorphic dysregulation of growth, body composition, and response to high-fat diet (HFD) of Pabp4-/- mice, with male, but not female, Pabpc4-/- mice being profoundly protected from HFD-induced obesity, insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Collectively these findings establish that genetic alteration of PABPC4 function and/or expression predisposes to the development of impaired lipid metabolism, obesity and associated pathologies in response to HFD. 

We hypothesise that PABPC4 is a master post-transcriptional regulator of sexually dimorphic metabolic gene expression programs. We will take advantage of complementary expertise in the new collaborative team to test this hypothesis via 3 major aims:

Aim 1: Elucidate the metabolic/physiological mechanisms and tissue aetiology of the obesity resistant/dyslipidaemic phenotype of Pabpc4-/- mice. Aim 2: Identify cell types and cellular pathways underlying the PABP4-dependent regulation of lipid/lipoprotein profiles and metabolic traits in mice. Aim 3: Identify functionally relevant PABPC4 mRNA targets and characterise their dysregulation in Pabpc4-/- mice.

Approaches used in project

The student will receive training in cutting-edge methods to study mouse in vivo metabolism (e.g. Sable Promethion indirect calorimetry/behaviour system) and ex vivo/in vitro cell metabolism (e.g. cellular respiration). The identification of PABP4 targets and regulated pathways will require combinations of transcriptomics, proteomics (proteome regulation, protein interactome mapping) and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression studies (e.g. RNA-binding protein function, RNA target identification).

The supervisory team encompasses all the required expertise and will fully support method training and deployment. In addition, training will be provided in bioinformatics approaches to data handling/analysis and use of human genetic association data, as required.

Relevant references for project background

1.    J. Wu, R. X. Yin, T. Guo, Q. Z. Lin, S. W. Shen, J. Q. Sun, et al. (2015) Gender-specific association between the cytoplasmic poly(A) binding protein 4 rs4660293 single nucleotide polymorphism and serum lipid levels. Mol Med Rep. 12: 3476-3486 [PMID:26005159]

2.    L. A. Passmore and J. Coller (2022) Roles of mRNA poly(A) tails in regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 23(2): 93-106. [PMID:34594027]

3.    Fátima Gebauer, Thomas Schwarzl, Juan Valcárcel & Matthias W. Hentze (2021) RNA-binding proteins in human genetic disease. Nature Reviews Genetics. 22:185–198 [PMID: 33235359]

4.    Kelaini S, Chan C, Cornelius VA, Margariti A. (2021) RNA-Binding Proteins Hold Key Roles in Function, Dysfunction, and Disease. Biology (Basel). 10(5):366. [PMID: 33923168]

5.    Van Nostrand EL, Pratt GA, et al. (2020) Principles of RNA processing from analysis of enhanced CLIP maps for 150 RNA binding proteins. Genome Biology. 21(1):90. [PMID: 32252787]

Mechanistic characterisation of regulation of PABPC1 by post-translational modification in response to nutrient availability (Primary Supervisor: Dr Matthew Brook)

Dr. Di Chen (ZJE) Email: [email protected]

PABPC1 is central to normal regulation of mRNA translation and decay. By binding mRNA poly(A) tails and interacting with a suite of partner proteins, PABPC1 confers disparate regulatory outcomes to mRNAs. However, despite many protein partners binding at overlapping or shared sites, the regulation of PABPC1-partner interactions is very poorly understood.

We have previously demonstrated PABPC1 to be extensively post-translational modified (PTM); ranging from S/T/Y phosphorylation and R methylation to more unusual K acetylation/methylation switches and Q/D methylation. To date, the functional relevance, regulatory mechanism, and upstream signalling pathways of almost all these PTMs remains unknown.

However, we have determined that PABPC1 is subject to regulation in response to nutrient status, cell cycle stage, and viral infection, indicating that full understanding of PABPC1 PTM-mediated regulation may uncover novel pathways of gene expression regulation.

To reveal novel systems of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression that underpin nutrient responsiveness and metabolic homeostasis, we will quantitatively determine PABPC1 PTM responses to nutrient availability and perform mechanistic studies of PTM effects on (for e.g.) protein partner binding, mRNA target selection/mRNA binding, and utilisation/fate of target mRNAs (e.g. translation, poly(A) tail status, decay), and we will delineate upstream signalling pathways of nutrient-responsive PTMs.

Aim 1: PTM-omics analysis of PABPC1 to fully characterise its post-translational regulation in response to nutrient availability. Aim 2: Mechanistic characterisation of the effects of nutrient-responsive PTMs on PABPC1 protein partner and/or mRNA interactions. Aim 3: Mapping of upstream regulatory signalling pathways that modulate nutrient-responsive PABPC1 PTMs to affect metabolic gene expression.

The student will receive training in cutting-edge methods to study: The identification of PABPC1 PTMs and regulated outcomes, interactions and upstream pathways will require combinations of proteomics/PTMomics, biophysical and structural studies (e.g. SPR, crystallography/NMR), transcriptomics, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression studies (e.g. RNA-binding protein function, RNA target identification) and in vitro cell metabolism methods (e.g. cellular respiration).

The supervisory team encompasses all the required expertise and will fully support method training and deployment. In addition, training will be provided in bioinformatics approaches to data handling/analysis, as required

1.    Brook M, McCracken L, Reddington JP, Lu ZL, Morrice NA, Gray NK. (2012) Biochem J. 441(3):803-12. The multifunctional poly(A)-binding protein (PABP) 1 is subject to extensive dynamic post-translational modification, which molecular modelling suggests plays an important role in co-ordinating its activities. [PMID: 22004688]

2.    Friend K, Brook M, Bezirci FB, Sheets MD, Gray NK, Seli E. (2012) Embryonic poly(A)-binding protein (ePAB) phosphorylation is required for Xenopus oocyte maturation. Biochem J. 445(1):93-100. [PMID: 22497250]

3.    Shan P, Fan G, Sun L, Liu J, Wang W, Hu C, Zhang X, Zhai Q, Song X, Cao L, Cui Y, Zhang S, Wang C. (2017) SIRT1 Functions as a Negative Regulator of Eukaryotic Poly(A)RNA Transport. Curr Biol. 27(15):2271-2284.e5. [PMID: 28756945]

4.    Passmore LA, Coller J. (2022) Roles of mRNA poly(A) tails in regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 23(2):93-106. [PMID: 34594027]

Investigating a role for the placenta in signalling maternal stress to the fetus and programming the fetal brain. (Primary Supervisor: Dr Paula Brunton)

Hugh Robson Building, George Square.

[email protected]

Prof. Ruth Andrew (Centre for Cardiovascular Science) Email: [email protected]

Maternal stress during pregnancy ‘programs’ long-lasting neuroendocrine and behavioural changes in the offspring[1,2]. Often this ‘programming’ is maladaptive and sex-specific[1,2]. How the effects of maternal stress are transmitted from the mother to the fetuses is not known. Direct transfer of maternal glucocorticoids to the fetuses is often proposed to mediate the programming effects. However, we have shown that although corticosterone secretion is significantly greater in stressed dams compared with controls, there is no impact on corticosterone concentrations in the fetal circulation or brain[3].

In addition, maternal stress upregulates placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 (the enzyme that inactivates glucocorticoids, limiting mother-to-fetus glucocorticoid transfer), suggesting this protective mechanism is intact[3]. These findings suggest a factor(s) other than glucocorticoids mediate fetal programming.

The aim of this project is to investigate the factor(s) that signal maternal stress to the fetus. The placenta has several functions that make it a likely central player in mediating the effects of maternal stress[4]. As well as nutrient transport, the placenta also actively produces and secretes factors (e.g. steroids, monoamines, growth factors, cytokines) that can influence fetal brain development. We will perform a metabolomic screen of secretions from male and female placentae from stressed and non-stressed pregnancies.

We will test whether identified candidate factors can mimic changes in gene expression observed in the prenatally stressed offspring brain. We will also investigate sex-dependent changes in placental gene expression induced by maternal stress, (in particular those involved in nutrient transport and allocation) and investigate whether these contribute to the programmed offspring phenotype. 

Behavioural observations will be used to monitor social stress induction in pregnant rats. Blood samples will be collected and immunoassays used to determine plasma hormone concentrations (primarily corticosterone). Mass spectrometry will be used for metabolomic profiling of placental secretions. Neuronal cell culture will be used to screen whether candidate placental factors can mimic changes in gene expression observed in the fetal/offspring brain.

Altered gene expression in the fetal brain, placentae neuronal cultures induced by maternal stress will be quantified by RNAscope/qPCR, while changes in protein expression will be assessed using immunocytochemistry/Western blotting.

1.    Brunton, P. J. & Russell, J. A. 2010. Prenatal social stress in the rat programmes neuroendocrine and behavioural responses to stress in the adult offspring: Sex specific effects. J Neuroendocrinol, 22, 258-271. 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2010.01969.x

2.    Maccari, S., Krugers, H. J., Morley-Fletcher, S., Szyf, M. & Brunton, P. J. 2014. The consequences of early-life adversity: Neurobiological, behavioural and epigenetic adaptations. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 26, 707-23. 10.1111/jne.12175

3.    Sze, Y., Fernandes, J., Kołodziejczyk, Z. M. & Brunton, P. J. 2022. Maternal glucocorticoids do not directly mediate the effects of maternal social stress on the fetus. J Endocrinol, 255, 143-158. 10.1530/JOE-22-0226

4.    Bronson, S. L. & Bale, T. L. 2016. The placenta as a mediator of stress effects on neurodevelopmental reprogramming. Neuropsychopharmacology, 41, 207-18. 10.1038/npp.2015.231

Investigating neurocomputational mechanisms and modulatory factors of decision making in ecological settings (Primary Supervisor: Dr Gedi Luksys )

Project location.

CDBS, 1 George Square.

[email protected]

Robin Hill (Edinburgh Informatics) Email: [email protected]

In today's society, people often find it difficult to receive information outside their social circle or comfort zone. The questions of whether limited availability or active avoidance of such information determines its limited reach and which neurocognitive factors contribute to this outcome are of huge importance, but they have not been sufficiently studied, especially at the basic level. MyNewsScan.eu is a news aggregator platform that we developed to tackle this problem.

We also developed the Paintings/Quotes experiment to investigate the role of schemas (prior information) and modulatory factors (e.g. risk, novelty) in decision making as well as the associated computational models that use error-based learning, motivation, and drift-diffusion model components. The PhD will build upon preliminary findings from both experiments that also included collection of biometrics such as eye movements, heart rates and emotional expressions.

The core doctoral research will employ a newly upgraded version of the website as a community-driven platform for large-scale collection of data, with some Edinburgh-based participants recruited for biometric, EEG and/or fMRI studies. We will also employ computational modelling, neuroeconomics and/or natural language processing methods, depending on student’s expertise and interests.

The ultimate aim is to understand factors affecting decision making at different levels: e.g. how biometric and neuroimaging data relate to behavioural metrics and questionnaire-based data, whether participant decisions and attitudes may be predicted by such information (including factors like stress, motivation and sleep), and whether easily collected online digital markers could be predictive of neuropsychiatric conditions that require lengthy and costly clinical assessments.

Depending on the expertise and interests of the student, the project will include (but is not limited to) a number of the following methods: behavioural/cognitive experiments in humans, both online and in laboratory, collection and analysis of biometrics and/or neuroimaging data, management and further development of MyNewsScan platform and its user community, computational modelling of learning and decision making (e.g. reinforcement learning, drift diffusion, motivation models) and their parameter estimation, advanced statistics (e.g. mixed effects models), machine learning and natural language processing, questionnaire-based and clinical characterisation of neuropsychiatric disorders.

1. Vosoughi et al., “The spread of true and false news online”, Science 2018; Huckvale et al., “Toward clinical digital phenotyping: a timely opportunity to consider purpose, quality, and safety”, npj Digital Medicine 2019;

2. Strasser et al., “Glutamine-to-glutamate ratio in the nucleus accumbens predicts effort-based motivated performance in humans”, Neuropsychopharmacology 2020;

3. Shinn et al., “A flexible framework for simulating and fitting generalized drift-diffusion models”, eLife 2020;

4. Luksys et al., “Stress, genotype and norepinephrine in the prediction of mouse behavior using reinforcement learning”, Nature Neuroscience 2009

How does the human fungal pathogen, Candida albicans, exploit its metabolic flexibility to acquire antifungal resistance? (Primary Supervisor: Dr Vasso Makrantoni )

IRR, Bioquarter

[email protected]

Dr Mikael Bjorklund (ZJE, China) Email: [email protected]

Dr Richard Sloan (CIR-IRR, UoE/ZJE) Email: [email protected] ;  

Dr Arno Alpi (Institute for Cell Biology, UoE) Email: [email protected]

Fungal pathogens kill over a million people every year. The most common human fungal pathogen is Candida albicans, a WHO-priority target. With only three classes of antifungal drugs available and increasing drug-resistant infections in clinical settings, understanding the mechanisms of resistance is a priority. Candida’s survival in the complex and dynamic host environment depends on the ability to efficiently control its metabolism, which involves the production and breakdown of numerous different small biological chemicals collectively called "metabolites". Candida is known to assimilate glucose and alternative carbon sources simultaneously, thereby providing growth advantages [1]. However, how this remarkable metabolic flexibility is regulated during infection, remains largely unknown.

Cellular responses to metabolic stress stimuli are mediated through gene regulatory networks and post-translational modifications. One such network, the Ubiquitin-Proteasome-System (UPS), is known to be responsible for eliminating unwanted proteins that would otherwise damage Candida cells. Molecular machines, called E3 ubiquitin ligases, ensure that the UPS destroys only those proteins whose functions should be terminated, and spares the majority of those required for ongoing cellular functions. One of the first UPS-dependent mechanisms identified in metabolic regulation is mediated by the budding yeast GID E3 ligase complex, which targets superfluous metabolic enzymes for proteasomal degradation upon changes in carbon sources [2,3]. Evidence from the Makrantoni lab suggests that Candida employs the GID E3 complex during host infection to rewire metabolic pathways in order to enhance its virulence. This project aims to uncover the molecular mechanism by which GID E3 ligase regulates metabolic flexibility in Candida.

This interdisciplinary PhD project is supported by cross-institutional collaborations between the Institutes for Regeneration and Repair and of Cell Biology in Edinburgh, and the ZJE Institute in China, providing state-of-the-art technologies.

Approaches used include:  

(1) Sophisticated genetics (CRISPR-Cas9 editing) to generate Candida mutants to assess functional links between viability and metabolome changes upon stress (in collaboration with Bjorklund lab, ZJE);

(2) Mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify GID E3 substrates, and biochemical approaches utilizing reconstituted GID-substrate ubiquitylation systems (in collaboration with Alpi lab, UoE);

(3) Use of human macrophages to reconstitute in vitro host-pathogen systems for assessing virulence (in collaboration with Sloan lab, UoE).

[1] Childers DS et al. (2016). The Rewiring of Ubiquitination Targets in a Pathogenic Yeast Promotes Metabolic Flexibility, Host Colonization and Virulence. PLOS Pathogens.  DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005566;

[2] Shuai Qiao et al. (2020). Interconversion between Anticipatory and Active GID E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Conformations via Metabolically Driven Substrate Receptor Assembly. Molecular Cell 77: 150–163;

[3] Langlois CR et al (2022). A GID E3 ligase assembly ubiquitinates an Rsp5 E3 adaptor and regulates plasma membrane transporters. EMBO Reports, 23: e53835

Systems-approach computational modelling and experimental investigation of food reward-based appetite regulation and energy homeostasis (Primary Supervisor: Dr Duncan MacGregor)

CDBS, Hugh Robson Building, George Square.

[email protected]

Weiwei Qiu (Zhejiang) Email: [email protected]

We will use computational modelling in tandem with in vivo approaches to explore how the brain integrates sensory, gut, and energy homeostasis signals to regulate feeding behaviour and maintain energy stores. Our computational model will take a systems approach, combining knowledge of brain-body mechanisms to better define mechanistic interactions within a whole-body system. The performance of this brain-body model will be tested in simulations of published behavioural experiments. The model will be kept simple, adding complexity only as necessary to match the data being tested against, but using a modular structure that will also allow the integration and testing of more detailed model components. Critically, this approach facilitates the interpretation of existing data and the generation of new, quantitative predictions for behavioural and physiological parameters such as body weight, blood glucose, and gut signalling that can be tested in the Qiu lab. 

We have already developed a basic version of the model to study how appetite is regulated by competition between sensory and physiological signals, with model output closely aligned with published behavioural data. Modelling of appetite regulation is a competitive field, but most models represent a limited, single paradigm for the relationship between eating behaviour and energy stores. Our modular approach will build on a skeleton of essential components (energy stores, digestion, metabolism, etc) that is ‘control paradigm neutral’ and therefore broadly adaptable to different experimental contexts. For example, investigations of the cognitive basis for decision-making are often based on foraging behaviour, for which our model would be an ideal partner. 

This will primarily be a computational modelling-based project but will also include in vivo experimental work, potentially in both Edinburgh and Zhejiang.

In particular, ongoing translational work exploring the endocrine and neural circuit signalling in the hypothalamus and brain stem that regulates eating behaviours and energy balance. The modelling will use our own software tools designed to make modelling rapid and accessible both for model development, and for dissemination and teaching.

1. Final Report Summary - NUDGE-IT (The Neurobiology of Decision-Making in Eating - Innovative Tools) https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/607310/reporting

2. Hume, Jachs, Menzies. Homeostatic responses to palatable food consumption in satiated rats. Obesity 2016 24(10):2126. doi: 10.1002/oby.21606

3. MacGregor, Leng. Modelling the hypothalamic control of growth hormone secretion. Journal of Neuroendocrinology 2005, 17 (12): 788-803. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2005.01370.x

4. MacGregor, Leng. Emergent decision-making behaviour and rhythm generation in a computational model of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. PLoS Computational Biology 2019 15(6). doi: 10.1371/pcbi.1007092.

5. Qui, W., Hutch, C. R., Wang, Y., Rucker, R. A., Wloszek, J., Myers Jr, M. G., & Sandoval, D. (2022). Multiple NTS Neuron Populations Synergistically Suppress Physiologic Food Intake but are Dispensable for the Response to VSG. bioRxiv, 2022-12.

Undergraduate students' and teachers’ experiences of intercultural learning at a UK-China joint institute of biomedicine (Primary Supervisor: Dr John Menzies)

[email protected]

Dr Celine Caquineau (BMTO) Email: [email protected]

We anticipate this distinctive project will have wide-spread influence in the field of TNE research by providing key foundational evidence to better understand T&L practices at ZJE and across the many other UK-China TNE partnerships. Being exploratory in nature, we believe this project provides a unique, pioneering and potentially transformative opportunity for a PhD researcher to develop a strategic direction for research into intercultural learning. 

The supervisory team has extensive experience in T&L in both UK and China. Both supervisors have Advance HE accreditations and have supported numerous PhD researchers in the development of their teaching practices. The supervisory team has strong links with the Institute for Academic Development at the University of Edinburgh, which has international recognition in T&L research.

First, the student will carry out a systematic review of TNE research to identify knowledge gaps. Informed by the review and in alignment with ZJE’s research priorities, the student will then identify the focus of their investigation.

Their project will likely encompass mixed quantitative and qualitative methods to directly address specific research questions. The project will use different ways of generating and analysing data to provide an in-depth and inclusive understanding of the ZJE community, and thus to identify potential challenges and opportunities in enhancing student and staff experiences. 

1. www.ed.ac.uk/biomedical-sciences/connections-outreach/international-activities/zje-institute

2. www.britishcouncil.cn/en/programmes/education/higher/TNE

Understanding functional heterogeneity in corticotrophs – from transcription to output(Primary Supervisor: Dr Nicola Romano)

CDBS, Hugh Robson Building, George Square. 

[email protected]

Dr Duncan McGregor (UoE/ZJE) Email: [email protected] 

Dr Peter Duncan (UoE) Email: [email protected]

Recent technological advances enabled scientists to study biological processes at the single-cell level with unprecedented amount of detail. These techniques highlighted a previously unknown level of heterogeneity in several biological tissues, but whether and how this translates to altered function is still poorly understood. The idea that cell populations are much more heterogeneous than previously thought changes how we think about our body functions and questions the traditional definitions of what is a "cell type". This project will focus on the pituitary gland, a key organ in controlling critical hormonal responses in the body, and specifically on corticotrophs, which regulate stress responses. We and others have gathered evidence for a high level of heterogeneity in corticotrophs at the functional level (e.g. electrical activity, calcium responses) and at the level of the transcriptome. These results brought us to ask how such a heterogeneous group of cells works like a coherent population to drive stress responses and what would be the function of it. One hypothesis is that heterogeneity increases the dynamic range of the system, allowing it to respond to a variety of different types, lengths and magnitudes of stress. We have recently shown that corticotrophs exist in a variety of dynamic cell states, that might be contributing in different ways to stress responses. This project will investigate the link between transcriptional and functional heterogeneity using state-of-the-art techniques, ranging from mathematical modelling and bioinformatics approaches to "wet lab" techniques such as imaging and electrophysiology to map transcriptomic state to functional outcomes.

The laboratories of the Supervisory Team use a range of complementary approaches, from bioinformatics (e.g. scRNAseq), imaging (IHC, calcium imaging, in vivo), electrophysiology, optogenetics, and mathematical modelling which can be integrated at different stages of the project.

1. Romanò et al., 2017 - Heterogeneity of Calcium Responses to Secretagogues in Corticotrophs From Male Rats - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28323954/

2. Duncan et al., 2022 - Chronic stress facilitates bursting electrical activity in pituitary corticotrophs - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34855218/

3. Walker and Romanò, 2022 - Fast dynamics in the HPA axis: Insight from mathematical and experimental studies - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36632146/

4. MacGregor and Leng, 2013 - Spike triggered hormone secretion in vasopressin cells; a model investigation of mechanism and heterogeneous population function - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23966850/

5. Le Tissier et al., 2016 - An updated view of hypothalamic-vascular-pituitary unit function and plasticity - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27934864/

Encoding of secretory function by time (Primary Supervisor: Dr Nicola Romano)

[email protected]

Dr KuanYoow Chan (ZJE) Email: [email protected]

Paul Le Tissier (UoE/ZJE) Email: [email protected]

Most hormones are stored in vesicles, allowing release in large amounts in response to stimulation.  Differential release of vesicles dependent on the time stored thereby allowing release of different cargoes (both endocrine and potentially autocrine signalling molecules), has been shown in several non-pituitary endocrine cells.  

The aim of this project is to study the importance of this temporal encoding of secretory vesicles using the endocrine cells of the pituitary regulating stress and growth as model systems.     

As well as being storage organelles, dynamic modification can occur within vesicles (processing of cargo by intra-vesicle enzymes /recruitment of additional proteins) and on the organelle surface (directing cytosolic location).  We hypothesise that this allows encoding of vesicle function, allowing a readout of the history of secretion and/or differential effects by release of specific pools of vesicles.  Using TIMER, a fluorescent cargo protein that changes colour with age, individual secretory vesicles will be labelled to determine whether there is differential release of secretory vesicles dependent on their age or the pattern of secretagogue(s) stimulation. 

Secretory vesicles of different ages will be isolated from cells using FACs and mass spectroscopy to identify the proteins packaged within a vesicle and on its membrane, determining if vesicles change with time and/or the physiological state of the cells.  Manipulation of the cargo will then allow us to test the physiological regulation of vesicle release based on age, as well as the consequences for physiology.

These studies will be done in cell lines and in ex vivo pituitary slices.  

This project will allow extensive training in tissue culture, transfection, primary cell transduction, live cell confocal microscopy, FACs, proteomic analysis with mass spectroscopy, protein modification and physiological assays.  Initially, studies will be optimised in cell lines in vitro but once optimised ex vivo primary pituitary cells and tissue slices will allow analysis in a more physiologically relevant context.  

1.Duncan, R., Greaves, J., Wiegand, U. Matskevich, I.  Bodammer, G, Apps, D.K., Shipston, M.J., Chow, R.H.  (2003)  Functional and spatial segregation of secretory vesicle pools according to vesicle age. Nature 422, 176–180.   https://doi.org/10.1038/nature01389  

2. Yau, B., Hays, L., Liang, C., Laybutt, D.R., Thomas, H.E., Gunton, J.E., Williams, L., Hawthorne, W.J., Thorn, P., Rhodes, C.J., Kebede, M.A. (2020)  A fluorescent timer reporter enables sorting of insulin secretory granules by age.  Journal of Biological Chemistry 295, 8901-8911.   https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.RA120.012432

Population-specificity of disease susceptibility and drug response (Primary Supervisor: Dr Rob Young)

Hugh Robson Building, George Square. 

[email protected]

Dr Sara Macias Ribela, (Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, UoE) Email: [email protected]

Over 100,000 genetic variants have already been associated with various medical phenotypes by genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, the majority of these studies have been performed in European populations. This bias limits the utility of these results and the ability to translate this knowledge into under-represented global populations. There is therefore an urgent need to understand population differentiation to inform the development of medical therapeutics for currently underserved populations. 

In this project, you will use bioinformatics to identify genome features that determine differential susceptibility to disease across European and Asian populations. You will then test their biological relevance in the laboratory. While most your time will be spent in Edinburgh, you will have the opportunity to spend time performing research at our international campus at Haining, China.

The project has three elements: 1) Initial characterisation of publicly available GWAS and drug-gene interaction datasets obtained from European and Asian populations to identify phenotypes and genomic features of population-specific variants.  2) Variants identified in the first stage will be engineered using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing in cell models isolated from both the European and Asian populations. You will quantify the transcriptomic differences across genotypes and populations using the functional genomics technology Cap Analysis of Gene Expression (CAGE).  3) Differentially expressed targets will be investigated using standard bioinformatics analyses, e.g. Gene Ontology enrichment, and integrated omics data available from related populations, including UK Biobank and the China Kadoorie Biobank. Follow-up experiments will determine whether known drug-gene interactions for these targets are effective across populations. 

We will use a combination of various computational software (BEDTools, Bowtie, CAGEr) and statistical analyses (in the R programming language) to investigate the genomic and transcriptomic datasets involved in this project. Subsequently, the student will learn cellular and molecular techniques (PCR, western blotting, CRISPR-Cas9 editing, growth assays) required to manipulate the cellular models studied here.

1. Fitipaldi H, Franks PW. Ethnic, gender and other sociodemographic biases in genome-wide association studies for the most burdensome non-communicable diseases: 2005-2022. Human Molecular Genetics 32, 3: 520-532(2023). https://doi.org/10.1093/hmg/ddac245  

2. Kindt ASD, Navarro P, Semple CAM, et al. The genomic signature of trait-associated variants. BMC Genomics 14, 108 (2013). http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2164/14/108  

3. Young RS, Talmane L, Marion de Procé S, et al. The contribution of evolutionarily volatile promoters to molecular phenotypes and human trait variation. Genome Biology 23(1), 89 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13059-022-02634-w  

4. Fernandez N, Cordiner RA, Young RS, et al. Genetic variation and RNA structure regulate microRNA biogenesis. Nature Communications 3(8), 15114 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms15114  

UCL Hebrew & Jewish Studies

PhD Studentship Applications Open

21 August 2024

The PhD student will investigate Hebrew and Jewish Aramaic texts, in first instance either Pirqei de-Rabbi Eliezer (chapters 6-8) or Baraita de-Shemuel (both works dated approximately to the eighth century CE) supervised by Prof Sacha Stern.

Pirqei de-Rabbi Eliezer (chapters 6-8), Baraita de-Shemuel, and other Hebrew and Aramaic early medieval astronomical works

Supervisor: Prof. Sacha Stern, Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies Application deadline: 27 September 2024

Qualification Type: PhD Location: London Funding for: Stipend (current estimate £26,572 per year) PhD start date: 1st February 2025 PhD duration: 3 years Application deadline: 27 September 2024 at 23:59 UTC

Project background

This PhD studentship is part of a research project on ‘Astronomy, calendar, and related sciences in Near Eastern cultures, third-eighth centuries CE’ (NEAstr). The project is funded by a UKRI Frontier Research grant (ERC Advanced Grant funded by UKRI). The Principal Investigator and first supervisor of the PhD student is Professor Sacha Stern (UCL Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies). The project runs for five years from 1 February 2025 to 31 January 2030. The project as a whole investigates the history of astronomy, calendar computation, and related sciences (astrology, cosmology, chronology) in the Near East from the third to eighth centuries CE. This period has been marginalised by falling between two periods of Near Eastern pre-eminence in these sciences: ancient Mesopotamia before it (cuneiform ceased in the first century CE), and after it, the Arabic scientific renaissance under the Abbasids. Yet in the intervening period, astronomy and calendar sciences thrived and continued developing in local Near Eastern languages, in a variety of religious and cultural traditions. NEAstr focuses on a still poorly known body of literature in Syriac, Aramaic, Hebrew and Armenian, mainly in the Christian and Jewish traditions, and also extends to old Arabic, Middle Persian, and Mandaic. Prominent are the works attributed, for example, to the Syriac scholar Severus Sebokht and the Armenian Ananias of Shirak. The project will produce historical studies, critical editions and translations, and a purposely constructed, open-access website incorporating a database and a multi-lingual scientific glossary. NEAstr evaluates the extent to which astronomy and calendar sciences in Near Eastern cultures preserved the earlier, Mesopotamian astronomical tradition, drew on contemporary Hellenistic scholarship, and impacted the later rise of Arabic astronomy. As a multi-disciplinary team, we investigate the fluid, trans-disciplinary relationship between these sciences, their broader cultural impact, and how they transcended, in the late antique and early medieval Near East, the boundaries of languages, religions and cultural difference.

About the role

The PhD student will be responsible, within the NEAstr project, to investigate Hebrew and Jewish Aramaic texts, in first instance either Pirqei de-Rabbi Eliezer (chapters 6-8) or Baraita de-Shemuel, both works dated approximately to the eighth century CE. The student will produce a critical edition (based on manuscripts) with translation and commentary of one of these two works, to be selected by the student in consultation with the PI. The student will investigate the broader historical, scientific, and literary contexts of the work under study, with reference to astronomical and related texts embedded in Talmudic literature, Jewish liturgical poetry, earlier medieval scientific works, Cairo Genizah texts, etc. Beyond Jewish sources, the student will assess the relationship of the work to other Near Eastern (e.g. Syriac and Armenian), Hellenistic, and ancient Mesopotamian scientific traditions. The PhD student will be an integral part of the NEAstr project team, which will include specialists in Syriac and Armenian scientific literatures. The student will participate in weekly research meetings of the team, and will actively contribute to the construction of the multi-lingual scientific glossary. The student will be required to live in or near London.  

Post-doctoral employment

On successful completion of the PhD and award of the degree, the candidate will be employed for a further period as postdoctoral Research Fellow until the end of the project, to work on texts that will not have been covered in the PhD thesis.

Prerequisites

Applicants are expected to hold a first and second degrees (e.g. BA and MA) in relevant fields.

Essential requirements include knowledge of rabbinic and medieval Hebrew and  Jewish Aramaic (SLA, JPA, and/or JBA), together with an interest in researching ancient and early medieval Jewish texts on astronomy, calendar, and related sciences.

Proficiency in early rabbinic literature, or in a related body of literature, is desirable but not essential.

How to apply

Eligible applicants should first contact prof sacha stern ( [email protected] ).

Please enclose: • a two-page statement outlining your interest in the project and suitability for it. • A two-page CV (including contact details of two referees). Interviews will be held for short-listed candidates. After interview, the successful candidate will be given instructions to formally apply online via the UCL website. For more information on doing a PhD within the Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies please see our website . 

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UK’s Levy 1 of 8 innovators selected for NIH-funded entrepreneurship program

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 23, 2024) —  A University of Kentucky surgery resident and researcher has been selected to participate in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) -funded Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Regional Entrepreneurship Development (I-RED) Program .

This program is led by XLerateHealth , a nationally recognized healthcare accelerator based in Louisville, Kentucky. UK is the lead academic institution.

In partnership with UK through UK Innovate, eight innovators were selected across the Southeast IDeA State region. They make up the second cohort of the I-RED program, which is funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

Among those eight innovators is Brittany Levy, M.D., who is in her final years of general surgery residency in the College of Medicine’s Department of Surgery .

Levy is the founder of TalkiTourni LLC. She created an automated emergency tourniquet device with the goal of improving the rates of adequately applied tourniquets outside of a hospital setting. This project was also supported last year through the Kentucky Network for Innovation and Commercialization .

“A properly applied tourniquet in an emergency outside of a hospital can be the difference between life and death. Every minute matters in these situations,” said Levy. “I’m grateful to be among this select group of researchers and clinicians whose innovations are directly impacting the health and well-being of our communities.”

“As the lead academic institution of the XLerator Network, we are proud to see Dr. Levy’s critical work chosen for this I-RED program funding. Her work addresses an issue found across the Southeast IDeA states, where people living in rural areas have longer travel times to the nearest hospital. We look forward to the potentially lifesaving impact this innovation will have,” said Ian McClure, J.D., associate vice president for research, innovation and economic impact and executive director for UK Innovate .

IDeA’s aim is to enhance an institution’s capacity to bolster biomedical research, increase the competitiveness of researchers in obtaining research funding and facilitate clinical and translational research focused on addressing the requirements of medically underserved communities.

The goal of the I-RED program is to help selected participants acquire the fundamental business and entrepreneurial skills needed to successfully commercialize their technologies.

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number UT2GM148083 and the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number U01HL152392. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. 

About XLerateHealth XLerateHealth ’s mission is to cultivate and grow impactful healthcare innovation in the Midwest, Southeast and other areas of the country where great innovation often goes unrecognized and underfunded. Founded in 2012, XLH supports the development of healthcare innovation through its healthcare accelerator, which helps startup founders commercialize their business and attract funding.

About UK Innovate UK Innovate at the University of Kentucky is the innovation, entrepreneurship and economic enterprise for University of Kentucky Research. Through technology commercialization, corporate partnerships, social innovation, innovation training and economic development initiatives related to UK’s research innovations, talent and community, UK Innovate works to move ideas into the world faster, where they can make the greatest social and economic impact possible.

As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.   

In 2022, UK was ranked by Forbes as one of the “Best Employers for New Grads” and named a “Diversity Champion” by INSIGHT into Diversity, a testament to our commitment to advance Kentucky and create a community of belonging for everyone. While our mission looks different in many ways than it did in 1865, the vision of service to our Commonwealth and the world remains the same. We are the University for Kentucky.   

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Phd-Study-In-Uk

• The UK Graduate Route– A Guide for Postgraduate Students

The UK Graduate Route – A Guide for Postgraduate Students

Written by Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

The UK Graduate Route allows international students to apply for a post-study work (PSW) visa which is valid for at least two years after completing their degree. You don’t need to be in employment to stay in the UK on a graduate visa, and there are no restrictions of the kind of work you can do. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the Graduate Route, including who is eligible and how to apply.

We’ve also written a guide to the UK’s High Potential individual visa , for students who have graduated from some of the world’s top universities.

If you're looking for information about getting a visa to study your Masters in the UK, read our guide covering student visa requirements in the UK .

UK Government immigration update

You might have heard that last week the Migration Advisory Committee released a report indicating that the Graduate Visa is working as intended and should be retained. The Home Office has now announced that no changes will be made to the Graduate Visa right now. However, aspects of the student immigration route are under review and we'll keep you updated on any new announcements. Until then, keep on top of all the recent changes to the UK immigration policy with our blog!

On this page

How long can i stay in the uk with a graduate visa.

How long your visa will be valid for depends on your qualification:

• Masters (and Bachelors) graduates will be able to stay for up to two years after the completion of their degree.
• Those who have completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification will be able to stay for three years

This time period begins from the day your visa application is approved.

You don’t need to have received a job offer to apply for a Graduate Route UK visa, and you’re free to undertake almost any kind of employment in the UK (or be self-employed). You can’t work as a professional sportsperson or apply for most state benefits.

Many international students won’t have been able to stay in their host country due to the Covid-19 pandemic. If this applies to you, you may exempt from the requirement to have studied in the UK for at least 12 months. See the UK government website for details. .

Who can apply for a Graduate visa?

The Graduate Route is open to any international student that has studied an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate course in the UK. As well as Bachelors, Masters and PhD courses, this includes several other qualifications such as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), a Law conversion course or a foundation programme in Dentistry or Medicine. You can view a more extensive list on the UK government website .

You’ll also need to have studied in the UK for at least 12 months (if the duration of your course was longer than this). If your course was shorter than 12 months, you’ll need to have remained in the UK for its entire duration .

You’ll need to be in the UK when you submit your application. You’ll also need to hold either Tier 4 visa or a Student Visa (which replaced the Tier 4 visa in 2020).

Should I apply for a Graduate Route visa as an EU student?

EU, EEA and Swiss students can apply for the Graduate Route visa in the same way as other international students.

If you already have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme , you won't need to apply for a PSW via the Graduate Route.

However, the deadline to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme was June 2021 for most students – so you'll likely need to apply for the Graduate Route instead. You can still apply for settled or pre-settled status in very specific circumstances .

How much does the Graduate Visa cost?

You’ll need to pay an application fee of £822 . There is also a healthcare surcharge – equivalent to £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK, to be paid upfront when you apply.

You might be able to get a refund for the healthcare surcharge if you end up working for the NHS.

Applying for the Graduate Route visa

To apply for a Graduate Route Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

• A valid passport (or other travel document showing your identity and nationality)
• Your biometric residence permit (BRP) if you have one. This would have been provided when you applied for your Tier 4 or Student Visa. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals can use their biometric passports to verify their identity in place of a BRP.
• Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number – this should have been sent to you by your university when you were offered a place on your course

If you received funding from a scholarship or sponsorship while studying in the UK, you may need to provide a letter from your funding provider approving your application. You’ll also need to get a certified translation if your documents are in a language other than English or Welsh.

There is no specific deadline for Graduate Route Visa applications, but you’ll need to apply before your student visa expires. When this is will depend on your course. You’ll be able to find out by checking you Confirmation of Studies (CAS), or by asking your university.

Once you’ve gathered the necessary documents, you can submit your application online. It may take up to eight weeks for you application to be approved.

Accessing your visa

If your application is successful, you’ll be issued with a digital eVisa, which you can view online via the government’s View and Prove service . This can also be accessed on your tablet or mobile device. This will allow you to prove your immigration status to employers, landlords or education providers.

If you want to stay in the UK longer than the two-year period covered by the Graduate Route Visa, you’ll need to apply for a different visa once it expires. This will most likely be the Skilled Worker visa .

Unlike the Graduate Route Visa, a Skilled Worker visa does require applicants to have an offer of employment with a minimum skill and salary level – but you’ll be able to use your time on the Graduate Route to work towards this.

For more information about the Graduate Route Visa, visit the official UK government website . You can also find out more about studying and living in the UK as an international student in our study in UK section .

Search for a PhD

Ready to start looking for your ideal programme? Browse and compare PhD programmes in the UK on FindAMasters.com.

Like hearing about postgraduate funding changes?

So do we it really helps when we're putting together our free weekly newsletter..

The seven UK Research Councils provide government studentships for PhD research in different subject areas. Our simple guide explains how this funding works, what you can get and how to apply successfully.

You may be able to get a PhD loan of up to £27,892 for a UK doctorate. Our guide explains eligibility, applications and repayments.

Our guide explains the best ways to fund international PhD study in the UK, with information on all the main scholarships available to you.

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) or Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs) provide UK Research Council funded PhD studentships to postgraduate students

The Turing Scheme recently replaced the Erasmus programme, but is it any different? Let’s examine the Turing Scheme vs Erasmus debate in detail.

Postgraduate students in the UK are not eligible for the same funding as undergraduates or the free-hours entitlement for workers. So, what childcare support are postgraduate students eligible for?

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