SEDarc is pleased to offer funding for up to 39 doctoral studentships, supporting postgraduate researchers in undertaking impactful doctoral research and training.
When is the Application Deadline:
January 30, 2026 (16:00 GMT)
Tell Me About The Award:
The South East Doctoral Training Arc (SEDarc) is a partnership of six leading UK universities funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
It offers fully funded doctoral studentships to support exceptional postgraduate researchers in the social sciences.
These studentships include world-class training, research support, professional development, and a compulsory placement.
SEDarc aims to train a new generation of social science researchers capable of addressing global challenges through innovative, interdisciplinary, and high-impact research.
Up to 39 PhD studentships will be funded for the 2026–2027 academic year, including 3 ring-fenced awards for widening participation applicants.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
PhD research within five interdisciplinary, challenge-led pathways:
- Living Sustainably
- Healthy Thriving Communities
- Inclusive Economic Growth
- Secure, Effective & Trusted Institutions
- Transformative Technologies for Society
Plus:
Advanced Data Skills, Advanced Quantitative Methods, and Interdisciplinary Collaboration are prioritised in the review process.
Type:
- Fully Funded Doctoral Studentship (PhD)
- Full-time or part-time (part-time for home students only)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a UK or international student
- Be nominated by one of the six SEDarc institutions
- Hold a Master’s degree or professional experience equivalent to Master’s level
- Possess research skills adequate for PhD-level work
- OR apply for a funded Master’s + PhD pathway if they do not yet hold a Master’s degree in the social sciences
- Contact the SEDarc administrator at their chosen institution (each university has its own internal deadlines)
How Are Applicants Selected?
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence
- Strength and feasibility of the research proposal
- Research skills and preparation
- Alignment with SEDarc themes
- Supervisor fit
- Potential for impact
- EDI (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) considerations for ring-fenced awards
Each application undergoes a rigorous review by the panel at both institutional and SEDarc levels.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All countries — both UK and international students may apply.
Where will the Award be Taken?
At one of the six SEDarc partner universities:
- Kingston University
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- University of Kent
- University of Reading
- University of Surrey
- University of Sussex
How Many Awards?
- Up to 39 fully funded studentships
- 3 ring-fenced awards for widening participation candidates (specific eligibility applies)
What is the Benefit of the Award?
Successful applicants receive:
- Full tuition fees (UK rate; international fee difference covered by SEDarc)
- £22,780 annual stipend (London weighting included)
- Access to world-class research resources
- Specialist research training
- Paid 3-month placement as part of the PhD
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary training and collaborative research
- Support from highly rated research institutions
Note: 2026/27 stipend amounts will be confirmed by UKRI; figures above reflect 2025/26 rates.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- 3.5 years full-time (including 3-month placement)
- Part-time equivalent available for home students
- Master’s + PhD pathway available for eligible students without a social sciences Master’s
How to Apply:
Applications must go through two stages:
Step 1: Contact a SEDarc Institution
Reach out to the administrator at your chosen university.
Each institution has its own internal deadlines, nomination process, and paperwork.
Step 2: Submit Application to SEDarc
If nominated, submit the full SEDarc application before:
📌 January 30, 2026 – 16:00 (GMT)
You may apply to only ONE SEDarc institution.
