CAM-Doctoral Training Partnership ESRC-funded PhD Studentships: Fully Funded PhD Opportunities in Social Sciences (UK)

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The CAM-Doctoral Training Partnership (CAM-DTP), a consortium funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and comprising Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Bedfordshire, and the University of Cambridge, is offering ESRC-funded PhD studentships starting in October 2026.

The partnership aims to provide interdisciplinary training for social scientists within an environment of excellent research and impact, focusing on addressing key societal challenges. CAM-DTP encourages applications from talented doctoral researchers from diverse backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on attracting high-potential applicants from low socio-economic backgrounds or educational disadvantage.

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When is the Application Deadline:

Applications are now open, with studentships starting in October 2026. Deadlines may vary depending on the university and chosen route (supervisor-led or student-led).

Tell Me About The Award:

The CAM Doctoral Training Partnership (CAM-DTP) is an ESRC-funded consortium of Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Bedfordshire, and the University of Cambridge. It supports talented doctoral researchers in the social sciences, offering interdisciplinary training, research support, and placements to address key societal challenges.

Which Fields are Eligible?

Over 40 advertised topics across the five ESRC research priority areas:

  • Behaviour
  • Digital society
  • Environment
  • Health and social care
  • Security and risk

Student-led proposals within eligible social science areas are also considered.

Type:

PhD Studentship (ESRC-funded)

Who can Apply?

  • Home (UK) students — eligible for full funding (fees + stipend).
  • International students — welcome but must secure additional funding to cover the difference in fees and immigration costs.
  • Applicants from all backgrounds, with strong encouragement for those from low socio-economic or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds.

How are Applicants Selected?

Selection is based on:

  • Academic excellence and research potential
  • Strength of proposal (supervisor-led or student-led)
  • Fit with CAM-DTP research priorities
  • Commitment to completing the PhD within the studentship duration

Which Countries Are Eligible?

  • UK students are fully eligible.
  • International students can apply but must secure extra funding for the fee difference and immigration costs.

Where will the Award be Taken?

At one of the three CAM-DTP universities:

  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • University of Bedfordshire
  • University of Cambridge

How Many Awards?

At least 32 ESRC-funded PhD studentships are awarded each year.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

  • Tuition fees at UKRI Home rate
  • Annual stipend (£20,780 in 2025–26, tax-free, full-time rate)
  • Contribution toward research and training costs
  • 3-month Innovation Fellowship placement
  • Personalised training & development program

How Long Will the Award Last?

  • 3.5 to 4.5 years full-time
  • Part-time (minimum 50%) also available

How to Apply:

  1. Route 1 (Supervisor-led): Choose from advertised topics and apply via the lead university after contacting the supervisory team.
  2. Route 2 (Student-led): Apply for a PhD place at one of the CAM-DTP universities and indicate interest in ESRC funding; departments nominate candidates.

⚠️ Note: There is no direct application to CAM-DTP. Applications are through your chosen university.Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
🔗 CAM-DTP Opportunities

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