Awards for UK/ EU research applicants

These awards are open to holders of, or those expected to obtain, first or upper second class honours degrees and cover fees at the home rate and, for applicants with UK residence only, a maintenance allowance. Non-UK residents who hold ordinary EU residence may also apply but, if successful, will receive fees only.

Applicants should indicate in the appropriate box on their University application form that they wish to apply for a DfE award.

The competition for these awards will open in late December each year.  DfE Terms and Conditions for 2020/2021

Any funding opportunities will be advertised on our Funding Opportunities page as soon as they become available.

These awards are based upon approved projects, including an element of industrial collaboration, which are advertised in the press; applicants must be able to demonstrate that their qualifications and experience are closely related to the project descriptions.

Open to holders of, or those anticipating, first or upper second class honours degrees, these awards cover the payment of fees at the home rate and an enhanced maintenance award (UK resident only) plus a contribution from the collaborating organisation.

Online applications must be submitted by the specified date.

Applications will be considered in areas of economic relevance, namely agri-food, life and health sciences, advanced materials (including clean technologies), engineering, ICT, electronics, software engineering, construction (including clean technologies), creative media and financial services.

In considering applications, account will be taken of engineering and technology, mathematical sciences and biological sciences which, as evidenced in the STEM report, are particularly under-represented at doctoral level graduation in Northern Ireland.

Any funding opportunities will be advertised on our Funding Opportunities page as soon as they become available.

University Scholarships/Vice-Chancellor's Research Scholarships (VCRS)

From time to time the University makes funding available to support University Scholarships.

These awards are open to applicants who hold or, expect to obtain, a first or upper second class honours degree and provide for payment of fees and maintenance allowance.

Applicants should indicate in the appropriate area on their University application form that they wish to apply for a University Scholarship/VCRS award.

The competition for these awards will opens in late December each year.

Applications are invited from UK, European Union and overseas researchers.

Applicants with up to one year’s current or previous registration for PhD at any institution may be considered for an award subject to the applicant providing evidence of good academic progress, formal release from all IP restrictions and ethical approval (if required).

Three-year awards may be allocated to such applicants where they are taking-up a new project at Ulster. In cases where the applicant is continuing with a project already commenced at Ulster, the duration of the award will be reduced by the full period of any previous registration. VCRS Terms and Conditions

Any funding opportunities will be advertised on our Funding Opportunities page as soon as they become available.

It is anticipated that the Research & Development Office of the Health & Social Care (HSC) in Northern Ireland will make available full and part-time studentships and fellowships for those working in, or interested in a career with, the health and personal social services.

All opportunities will be advertised in the local media.

Applicants can find further information on the R&D Division's website.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs offers a limited number of postgraduate studentships.

Funding is provided for full-time students only.

DAERA studentship details are available on the NI Direct website.

Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds offers PhD fellowships in biomedical research.

Their fellowships are open to 'outstanding' students within the EU and will provide a monthly maintenance stipend of 2,000 Euros and support to attend international scientific conferences.

Applicants can find further information on the Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds website.

Funds for Women Graduates offers grants to help women graduates with their living expenses whilst registered for study or research within the UK.

Applicants can find further information on the Funds for Women Graduates website.

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers offers several different awards to assist engineers who are intending to do research. It will provide a stipend of around £7,500 per year, and applications are usually due by 30th June.

Information on their various award opportunities can be found on the Institution of Mechanical Engineers website.

The Royal Geographical Society provides grants to support existing students in data collection and fieldwork.

Applicants can find further information on the Royal Geographical Society's website.