School of Mechanical Engineering Studentship 2026/27 (BSMS)

PGR-F-56

Key facts

Deadline: Friday 30 January 2026
Funding start date: Thursday 1 October 2026
Number of funding places: 1
Country eligibility: UK only
Source of funding: University of Leeds
Key staff: Dr Peter Culmer
Schools: School of Mechanical Engineering

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

Become an innovator in the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds! For 2026/27 entry, we are offering 2 talented budding researchers the opportunity to join our thriving community of leading researchers within the School of Mechanical Engineering. This is a highly competitive School of Mechanical Engineering Studentship, in collaboration with the Brighton and Sussex Medical School, offering the award of fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant (currently £20,780 for academic session 2025/26) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. There is 1 funded place available. Please note that whilst you may be successful in securing an academic offer for any project linked to this funding opportunity, this does not mean that you have been successful in securing an offer of funding. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis. This funding is linked to the specific advertised project listed below under the Linked Project Opportunities section, where you can out more about the project.

Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals. PhD Overview: With growing global recognition of climate change, this PhD is an exciting chance to shape the development of sustainable healthcare systems, helping organisations like the NHS work towards carbon Net-Zero targets, reduce waste and adopt circular economy principles. The PhD will be based in the new SUSTAIN facility (Simulation Theatre for Academia and Industry), working with the UK Department of Health and Social Care and leading experts in sustainable healthcare at Brighton & Sussex Medical School. The PhD will involve the assessment of emerging healthcare technologies and procedures, using SUSTAIN facility – working to drive change in UK and international practice. <h2>Why do your PhD at Leeds?</h2> 96% of our research is world-leading (REF 2021) At Leeds, our research in major engineering disciplines, mathematics and physical sciences addresses the most prevalent real-world challenges – providing solutions that have had both a national and global impact. Study in an active research environment Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. A strong network of support The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. Close industry links Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. Professional skills development We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. Personal and wellbeing services Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. Join our global community We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Faculty information</h2>

Please visit our <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering">School of Mechanical Engineering</a> website to find out more about the School and our current Research activities Selection Process: <ul> <li>Applications will be processed after the closing date of 30 January 2026 (please ensure that all documentation to support your application is submitted by this date)</li> <li>Once processed, applications will be circulated to supervisors who will shortlist and interview</li> <li>Please note that you may be considered for an academic offer, however, you may not be considered for funding, these are 2 separate processes</li> <li>Supervisors will select their top candidates and put them forward to be considered for School of Mechanical Engineering 2026/27 (BSMS) Funding by the School Selection Panel</li> <li>The School Selection Panel will take place to determine the candidates who will be awarded funding, along with reserve candidates</li> <li>Academic and funding offers to be issued by no later than 31 March 2026</li> <li>Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by no later than 30 April 2026.</li> </ul>

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the University’s website. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for PHD Mechanical Engineering FT, in the Research Area, the project you wish to apply for (please see below for eligible projects) and that the funding you wish to be considered for is School of Mechanical Engineering Studentship 2026/27 (BSMS). If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below). Applications will be considered after the closing date. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed. Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 30 January 2026: <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below). As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. We also recognise relevant industrial and academic experience.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

For further information about this Scholarship, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>. For information about the specific projects, please refer to the linked projects below for contact details of individual supervisors.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked project opportunities</h2>