Apply now for funded PhD opportunities in 2026 at the University of Brighton

Will 2026 be the year you start your fully funded PhD? The University of Brighton is inviting applications for research degree study from applicants with home fee status. Ten studentships are on offer with at least five reserved for alumni students who have completed degree studies (undergraduate or postgraduate) at the University of Brighton within the last five years.

These studentships are worth over £95,000 each and will support either full-time (3.5 years) or pro-rata for part-time doctoral study. As part of our Distinctively Brighton 2035 strategy, these studentships aim to address inequities.

When do you need to apply?

There are two rounds for applications:

Round 1
Deadline: Thursday 30 April 2026 at 11.59pm
Interviews: Mid-May 2026: dates to be confirmed

Round 2
Deadline: Sunday 30 May 2026 at 11.59pm
Interviews: Mid-June 2026: dates to be confirmed

Start date: June or July 2026

Applicants must identify and approach a potential supervisor from the University of Brighton for guidance on writing a research proposal prior to submitting an online application.

Where can you find out more about how to apply?

Visit our website for full details about our open call for PhD studentships to find out more about eligibility, the application process, what to include in your application, as well as how to find a PhD programme and identify a potential supervisor.

Why study for a PhD at the University of Brighton?

As well as full funding for the PhD, successful candidates benefit from our rich research environment with expert supervisory teams, a programme of postgraduate researcher development workshops, membership of specialist, interdisciplinary research centres and groups, and a vibrant doctoral research community.

Whether you’re motivated by making new discoveries, accessing exceptional learning and facilities or enhancing your transferable skills, we’re here to help you make your breakthrough and transform your future.

How do these studentships aim to address inequities?

As an institution, we are committed to developing and nurturing a diverse community that delivers equitable outcomes and supports equity through the impact of our activities in local, national and international communities. We champion equality and diversity as critical to the future we seek to build and protect.

As part of this commitment, we are seeking applications from candidates who identify as being from groups under-represented in higher education, and in doctoral study in particular, as well as those who have undertaken non-traditional routes towards a PhD, for example via extensive professional experience. In addition, we also welcome applications where the research aim is to explore and challenge inequities.

What are the next steps?

Find out more and apply today.

If you have queries, please email DoctoralCollege@brighton.ac.uk.