PhD Funding

Scholarships are available for PhD study in all research areas in the School: photonics, condensed matter physics and astrophysics. These fully funded PhD scholarships usually start in September, but some may be available immediately. Scholarships typically fund three to four years of study depending on the funding source, with most PhD students funded for 3.5 years.

UK and EU Applicants

For UK students and some European students, the School awards scholarships funded by the UK Research Councils (EPSRC, STFC and NERC), which can cover both fees and stipend. The Doctoral Training Centres in Condensed Matter Physics, in Magnetic Resonance, and the  Engineering Doctorate in Photonics also award studentships. Successful applicants for PhD or EngDoc study will normally have a first or upper-second class degree in physics, astronomy, or related subject.

UK, EU and Overseas Applicants

There are several other funding mechanisms open to UK, EU and international students listed on the University’s Postgraduate Scholarships page. These include the prestigious SUPA Prize Studentships which has an application deadline of January each year. Staff in the School regularly offer studentships funded through specific research projects including ERC and EU FP7 projects. International students may also consider applying for Commonwealth Scholarships, other national Scholarships including the Brazilian Science Without Borders scheme, or a joint PhD programme with an overseas university such as Cotutelle internationale de these.