The Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is inviting outstanding researchers from around the world to apply for the 2026 Vice-Chancellor’s PhD Scholarships, one of the university’s most prestigious and competitive funding opportunities. Now in its 11th year, the scheme continues to champion innovative, inclusive, and world-leading research that aligns with LJMU’s Strategy 2030.
Applications Open: 22 September 2025
Deadline: 30 January 2026
Results Announcement: 15 April 2026
Early applications are strongly encouraged, as selection is highly competitive.
The LJMU Vice-Chancellor’s (VC) PhD Scholarships are designed to attract exceptional doctoral candidates who demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to global research. The 2026 scheme offers up to 20 fully funded studentships across two major faculties:
Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science
Faculty of Society and Culture
This initiative supports interdisciplinary and collaborative research, encouraging candidates to explore real-world challenges through academic excellence and innovation.
Astrophysics
Computer Science
Engineering
Environmental Sciences
Nursing
Pharmacy
Psychology
Sports Science
Art and Creative Industries
Business and Management
Education
Humanities
Law and Criminology
Social Sciences
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship
Full-time (3 years) or Part-time (6 years) study options available
The scholarship is open to both UK and international applicants who meet the following criteria:
✅ Hold (or expect to hold) a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
✅ Meet LJMU’s PhD entry requirements for the chosen field of study
✅ If currently completing a Master’s, applicants must finish before August/September 2026
❌ Applicants already enrolled in a PhD or professional doctorate are not eligible
Applications are reviewed in two stages:
Evaluates academic excellence, supervisory quality, and diversity across research proposals.
Led by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Knowledge Exchange) and senior academic committee, assessing:
Academic calibre and research potential
Quality and originality of the research proposal
Supervisory expertise and capacity
Alignment with LJMU’s research priorities and Strategy 2030
Open to applicants of all nationalities (Home and Overseas fee status).
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
Location: Liverpool, United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Up to 20 fully funded PhD studentships available for 2026 entry.
✅ Full tuition fee coverage (UK or international rate)
💷 Annual stipend: £20,780 per year (starting October 2025)
🧪 Bench fee: £1,600 per year for research and lab costs
🤝 Personal mentoring and academic coaching
📚 Access to the LJMU Researcher Development Programme
🌟 Participation in The Brilliant Club Scholars Programme
✅ Full tuition coverage
🤝 Mentorship and career development support
📚 Professional researcher training opportunities
Full-time: 3 years
Part-time: 6 years
Follow these steps to apply for the LJMU Vice-Chancellor’s PhD Scholarships 2026:
1️⃣ Download the Application Form
Access and complete the official LJMU VC PhD Scholarship Application Template (Word, 75.6 KB).
2️⃣ Prepare Your Research Proposal
Outline your intended area of research, objectives, and alignment with LJMU’s research priorities.
3️⃣ Submit Through Your Lead Supervisor
Your Lead Supervisor must submit the completed application form to:
📩 VCScholarships@ljmu.ac.uk
4️⃣ Review All Guidelines
Ensure compliance with the eligibility, submission, and equal opportunities criteria before submission.
Applications close 30 January 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Ranked among the top modern universities in the UK for research and innovation
A diverse and inclusive research community spanning over 100 countries
Strong industry collaborations with global organizations and public institutions
Access to cutting-edge facilities and laboratories across disciplines
Comprehensive career and researcher development support