LANCASTER UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Funded PhD Opportunities in Chemistry and Materials Science
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Fully funded PhD positionsFunding
- Collaboration with industry partnersIndustry Links
- Access to national PhD training programmesTraining
- Work with internationally respected academicsAcademic Excellence
- Opportunities for industrial placementsWork Experience
- Focus on cutting-edge research areasResearch Focus
Lancaster University offers fully funded PhD studentships in various scientific disciplines, often linked to national research programmes and industrial collaborations. These positions provide an opportunity to join world-leading research groups, work with internationally respected academics, and contribute to cutting-edge research in areas like energy materials, battery technology, and sustainable innovation. Students benefit from comprehensive training programmes, networking opportunities, and mentorship, preparing them for careers in academia or industry. Please note that some funded positions are specifically for home students only due to funding regulations.
Careers
Graduates from PhD programmes at Lancaster University are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in both academia and industry. The research skills, analytical abilities, and specialist knowledge gained during doctoral studies are highly valued in sectors such as research and development, higher education, and specialised scientific industries.
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Academic Staff
- Research Scientist
- Materials Scientist
- Chemist
- Process Engineer
- R&D Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- Are these PhD opportunities funded?
- Yes, these PhD opportunities are fully funded. Fees are covered by the funding body, and a competitive stipend of £21,805 p/a for 2026-27 is provided to cover living costs.
- What are the academic entry requirements?
- Typically, a First Class or strong Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences, or a related discipline is required. Specific project requirements may vary.
- How do I apply for a funded PhD position?
- You should review project information, potentially make an informal enquiry to the supervisor, submit an expression of interest, and then submit a formal application through Lancaster University's online postgraduate application system, clearly stating the project title.
- What is the application deadline?
- Application deadlines vary by specific project; please check individual listings. For some projects, the deadline is 16 July 2026, and applications are often reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Postdoctoral Researcher, Academic Staff, Research Scientist, Materials Scientist, Chemist, Process Engineer, and R&D Specialist in academia and industry.
Entry requirements
DegreeA First Class or strong Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences, or a related discipline is typically required. Specific requirements may vary by project.
While not explicitly stated for these PhDs, for other programmes at Lancaster, English language proficiency is required if your first language is not English. Specific requirements vary by course. For PhD positions, a strong academic background and relevant research interests are key.
Fees
Tuition (international)Fees covered by funder (e.g., Faraday Institution)
Tuition (home)Fees covered by funder (e.g., Faraday Institution)
LivingUKRI stipend provided (£21,805 p/a for 2026-27)
For the specific funded PhD opportunities listed, fees are covered by the funding body. A competitive stipend is provided to cover living costs.
How to apply
1. Review Project InformationCarefully read the advertised project details, including funding eligibility, research focus, and application deadlines. Ensure you meet the academic and any other specific requirements.
2. Informal Enquiry (Optional but Recommended)For specific projects, you may direct informal enquiries to the project supervisor via email to discuss the role and your suitability.
3. Submit Expression of InterestComplete the online expression of interest form provided for the specific funding scheme (e.g., the Faraday Institution survey link).
4. Apply via University SystemSubmit a formal application through Lancaster University's online postgraduate application system. Clearly state the specific PhD project title you are applying for in your application, especially in the 'source of funding' section.
5. InterviewShortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which may be conducted in person, via Skype, or by telephone.
6. Formal OfferIf successful after the interview, you will be invited to apply via the admissions portal to receive a formal offer of admission, which will include any conditions.
7. Accept Offer and Provide DocumentsCheck the conditions of your offer letter and submit any outstanding required documents by the specified deadlines.
Scholarships
Faraday Institution PhD Training ProgrammeUKRI stipend (£21,805 p/a) and fees covered
Frequently asked questions
Are these PhD opportunities funded?
+
Yes, these PhD opportunities are fully funded. Fees are covered by the funding body, and a competitive stipend of £21,805 p/a for 2026-27 is provided to cover living costs.
What are the academic entry requirements?
+
Typically, a First Class or strong Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences, or a related discipline is required. Specific project requirements may vary.
How do I apply for a funded PhD position?
+
You should review project information, potentially make an informal enquiry to the supervisor, submit an expression of interest, and then submit a formal application through Lancaster University's online postgraduate application system, clearly stating the project title.
What is the application deadline?
+
Application deadlines vary by specific project; please check individual listings. For some projects, the deadline is 16 July 2026, and applications are often reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Postdoctoral Researcher, Academic Staff, Research Scientist, Materials Scientist, Chemist, Process Engineer, and R&D Specialist in academia and industry.