University's President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell - President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS)

President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award

At the University of Manchester, you will receive a fully funded PhD for up to 4 years. The scholarship covers your full tuition fees, regardless of whether the domestic or international tuition fee rate applies. In addition, you will receive a tax-free living allowance (grant) of £21,805 (about 25,650 EUR) per year for 2026/27, as well as an additional £1,000 (approximately 1,180 EUR) per year. You will also become part of a group of ‘Presidential Scholars’ and receive training in areas such as leadership, public engagement and research collaboration. You will be invited to events with the Vice-Chancellor and will have the opportunity to lead university projects. This is Manchester’s flagship PhD programme, which each year focuses on a research theme spanning all three faculties.

Who can apply

• Degree: You are applying for a PhD place at the University of Manchester. You hold a Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honours or are due to obtain one (or hold an equivalent international qualification).
• Master's: Ideally, you will already hold a Master’s degree that meets the entry requirements for your chosen degree programme, or you will be well on the way to obtaining one.
• Field of study: Any field of research, provided your project relates to this year’s theme (for 2026/27: ‘Environment-related challenges to human health, society and productivity’).
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Research potential: You can demonstrate your research experience or potential, for example through publications, awards or public engagement.
• English: If English is not your first language, do you meet the required language proficiency standards (such as IELTS 7.0 or an equivalent level)?

How to apply

First, select a project supervised by a mentor from the list provided. Contact the mentor to discuss whether you are suitable for the project, and then submit your online application. The application deadline is 18 December. If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to a panel interview via Microsoft Teams, which will include a 10-minute presentation of your proposed project.

How realistic are your chances?

This is Manchester’s most prestigious postgraduate award. Only a few scholarships are awarded each year per faculty, all of which are tied to a narrowly defined research topic, so competition is fierce. Your chances depend heavily on whether you are a good fit for a specific project on offer and whether you can convince the supervisor. A first-class degree, a clear research track record and a compelling presentation during the interview will give you the best prospects. Contact the supervisor of your choice at an early stage so that you can develop a convincing research proposal before the application deadline.