University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships 2026 , UK (Fully Funded)
The University of Leeds is offering the Leeds Doctoral Scholarships, providing fully funded PhD research opportunities for Home students across all faculties. These scholarships are designed to support outstanding researchers in pursuing innovative projects while contributing to the University’s research excellence.
Degree Level
- Doctoral (PhD)
Available Subjects
The scholarships are open across all Faculties of the University. Students may choose from listed projects or submit their own research proposals. Some sample areas include:
AI and Computational Sciences: AI-assisted quantification of biological systems, computer simulations of photosynthesis
Health and Life Sciences: Investigating vitamin D deficiency and breast cancer risk, immune modulation using glycan-nanoparticle probes
Sustainability and Food Science: Community gardening and healthy aging, smart bioactive materials for sustainable nutrition
Engineering and Material Sciences: Design of smart packaging, tribology of sustainable protein concentrates
These projects represent interdisciplinary research opportunities and align with global challenges in health, sustainability, and technology.
Benefits
Fully funded tuition fees for PhD study
Annual maintenance stipend to cover living costs
Access to world-class research facilities
Supportive and inclusive research environment
Opportunity to contribute to high-impact interdisciplinary projects
Eligible Nationalities
Open to domestic students only.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Leeds Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must:
Be Home fee-rated students
Have not previously been awarded a PhD or currently registered for a PhD
Hold a First Class undergraduate degree (or equivalent), or demonstrate equivalent experience
Meet English language requirements, minimum IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each component
Reside within a reasonable distance from the University of Leeds while studying
Candidates in the final year of undergraduate study are also eligible if they meet the entry requirements upon graduation.
Application Procedure
The application process involves two stages:
Stage 1 – Apply for a Research Programme: Submit your application for a research degree with all required supporting documents. Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered.
Stage 2 – Submit Scholarship Application: After receiving your 9-digit Student Application ID, complete the online scholarship application form.
Applications are assessed solely on academic merit, and the final selection is made by the University of Leeds Scholarship Selection Panel.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 1 April, 17:00 (UK time)
Funding Start Date: 1 October
The University will notify successful applicants within 10 weeks of the scholarship closing date.
Why Choose the University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is a research-intensive institution with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The university welcomes applications from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian, minority ethnic communities, LGBT+ individuals, and students with disabilities.
The Leeds Doctoral Scholarship is an ideal opportunity for ambitious researchers seeking to advance their academic career and make a meaningful contribution to their field.
