Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has opened applications for the 2026 Vice-Chancellor (VC) PhD Scholarships Scheme, inviting global research talent. Entering its 11th year, the scheme supports innovative and inclusive research across various fields, including neuroscience, engineering, public health, and criminology.
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When is the Application Deadline:
🗓️ 30 January 2026
Applications opened on 22 September 2025.
Tell Me About the Program:
The Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) Vice-Chancellor (VC) PhD Scholarships Scheme 2026 is a prestigious research scholarship designed to attract exceptional doctoral talent from around the world.
Now in its 11th year, the scheme supports pioneering, inclusive, and multidisciplinary research aligned with LJMU’s Strategy 2030, strengthening its global research excellence.
A maximum of 20 fully funded PhD studentships are available across two major faculties:
- Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science
- Faculty of Society and Culture
The program promotes collaboration across disciplines and international research institutions.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants may apply across any discipline within the following research areas:
Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science:
- Astrophysics
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Pharmacy
- Environmental Sciences
- Sports Science
Faculty of Society and Culture:
- Business
- Art & Creative Industries
- Education
- Humanities
- Law
- Social Sciences
Type:
🎓 Fully Funded PhD Scholarship (Full-time or Part-time options)
Who can Apply?
✅ Open to both UK and international students
✅ Must meet LJMU’s PhD entry requirements for the chosen discipline
✅ Applicants currently completing a Master’s must finish before enrolment (Aug/Sept 2026)
❌ Students already enrolled in a PhD or professional doctorate are not eligible
How are Applicants Selected?
Applications go through a two-stage review process:
- Faculty Panel Review: Evaluates academic excellence, supervisory quality, and diversity.
- University Panel Review: Overseen by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Knowledge Exchange) and committee, assessing project strength, supervision quality, and alignment with LJMU priorities.
Selection criteria include:
- Academic calibre of the applicant
- Research potential and outputs
- Strength of the proposed project
- Supervisory expertise
- Contribution to LJMU’s research goals
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 Open to all nationalities (Home and Overseas fee status).
Where will the Program be Taken?
📍 Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), United Kingdom.
How Many Awards?
🎯 Up to 20 fully funded PhD studentships in 2026.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
Full-Time (3 Years):
- 💸 Full tuition coverage
- 💰 Annual stipend: £20,780 per year (from October 2025)
- 🧪 Bench fee: £1,600 per annum for research/lab costs
- 🤝 Mentoring, coaching, and advocacy
- 📚 Access to Researcher Development Programme
- 🌟 Participation in the Brilliant Club Scholars Programme
Part-Time (6 Years):
- 💸 Full tuition coverage
- 🤝 Mentoring and support
- 📚 Researcher Development and training opportunities
How Long Will the Program Last?
⏳ Full-time: 3 years
⏳ Part-time: 6 years
How to Apply:
- Download and complete the application form template (Word, 75.6 KB).
- The Lead Supervisor must submit the final application to:
📩 VCScholarships@ljmu.ac.uk - Review the eligibility, submission, and equal opportunities guidelines before applying.
- Applications close 30 January 2026, and successful applicants will be notified by 15 April 2026.
Visit the Program Webpage for Details:
👉 https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/research/phd-studentship-application

