In 2026, the University of Oxford is offering a distinctive Geotechnical Engineering Scholarship, allowing doctoral candidates to pursue a fully funded 3.5-year D.Phil. focused on nature-based and biomimetic foundation systems. This initiative is part of Oxford’s innovative research environment, merging engineering with sustainability, and aims to transform foundation building for renewable energy and infrastructure. The scholarship includes full tuition coverage and a substantial annual stipend, making it one of the leading funding opportunities for engineering graduates globally.
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When is the Application Deadline:
Noon, 3 March 2026 (aligned with Oxford’s graduate admissions timeline).
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Tell Me About The Award:
The Geotechnical Engineering Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded 3.5-year D.Phil. studentship at the University of Oxford. It focuses on nature-based and biomimetic foundation systems, drawing inspiration from tree root architectures to develop sustainable, low-carbon geotechnical solutions. This doctoral funding opportunity combines engineering innovation with sustainability, aiming to redefine foundations for renewable energy, railways, offshore structures, and low-rise buildings in remote regions.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Physics
- (Desirable background in Geotechnical or Structural Engineering)
Type:
Doctoral Studentship (D.Phil. in Engineering Science).
Who can Apply?
- Applicants with a first-class or strong upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or Physics.
- Must demonstrate excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
- Open to both home and international students (full funding available).
- Desirable (not mandatory):
- Background in Geotechnical or Structural Engineering.
- Programming ability in MATLAB or Python.
- Experience with Finite Element Analysis.
How are Applicants Selected?
Candidates are judged on:
- Academic excellence.
- Communication skills.
- Alignment with project goals.
- Relevant technical skills (geotechnical background, programming, modelling).
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All countries (home and overseas students eligible).
Where will the Award be Taken?
University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science.
How Many Awards?
One fully funded doctoral studentship.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full course fee coverage (home or overseas rate).
- Tax-free stipend of approx. £20,780 per year for 3.5 years.
- Supervision by Professor Jonathan Knappett and Professor Chris Martin.
- Opportunity to contribute to pioneering research in biomimetic geotechnical engineering.
- Integration into Oxford’s cutting-edge research ecosystem.
How Long Will the Award Last?
3.5 years (full duration of D.Phil. program).
How to Apply:
- Submit a graduate application form via Oxford’s admissions portal.
- Quote reference 25ENGCI_JK in correspondence and application.
- Meet Oxford’s graduate admissions criteria.
- Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Jonathan Knappett (jonathan.knappett@eng.ox.ac.uk).
- Application deadline: Noon, 3 March 2026.
- Start date: October 2026.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
Oxford University – Research Studentship in Geotechnical Engineering
