Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship 2025/26

Becoming an innovator in the School of Physics &amp; Astronomy at the University of Leeds!<br /> <br /> For 2025/26 entry, we are offering 1 talented budding researcher the opportunity to join our thriving community of leading researchers within the faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.<br /> <br /> A highly competitive STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant (currently &pound;19,237 for academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided.<br /> <br /> This opportunity is open to all applicants. All candidates will be placed into the STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.<br /> <br /> STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentships are linked to specific projects and links to these projects are below in the Linked Project Opportunities section.<br /> <br /> 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.<br />

<p><strong>Important: </strong>Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p> <p style="text-align:start; margin-bottom:24px"><strong>Why do your PhD at Leeds?</strong></p> <p><strong>‘World-leading research environment (REF 2021)</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Study in an active research environment</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>A strong network of support</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Close industry links</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Professional skills development</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Personal and wellbeing services</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Join our global community</strong></p> <p>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.</p>

<p>Please visit the <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/physics-research-degrees">School of Physics & Astronomy</a> website to find out more about the School and Research activities.</p>

<p>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 <strong><em>PHD Physics & Astronomy FT</em></strong>, in the Research Area, <em><strong>the project you wish to apply for (please see below for eligible projects)</strong></em> and that the funding you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p> </p> <p>Applications will be considered from 13 January 2025 with interviews taking place in February 2025. 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.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 8 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>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.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

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. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>Please contact individual supervisors if you have any project-specific questions.</p>