Entry ID SC-38223
At a glance
The President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award is the University of Manchester's flagship funding initiative, strongly supported by the President and Vice-Chancellor. It provides fully-funded PhD studentships to outstanding candidates from all nationalities across all research areas, with a focus on interdisciplinary projects. For 2026/27 entry, awards are available in all three faculties (Biology, Medicine & Health; Humanities; Science & Engineering) themed around 'Environmental challenges to human health, society, and productivity'. Scholars benefit from mentorship by world-leading academics, bespoke training in leadership, collaboration, public engagement, and more, exclusive events, and opportunities to lead university initiatives. [[University of Manchester PDS page](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/funding/presidents-doctoral-scholar-award/)]
Funding covers full tuition fees (home or international rate) for 3.5-4 years, a tax-free annual stipend at UKRI rate (approx. £21,805 for 2026/27) plus £1,000 enhancement. Duration: 3.5 years full-time (pro-rata part-time). Candidates must cover personal relocation, visa, and health costs. Number of awards varies by faculty (e.g., 5 in FBMH, 8 in Humanities). Projects are supervisor-led and interdisciplinary, involving at least two faculties. [[FBMH PDS page](https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/funding-fees/funded-programmes/presidents-doctoral-scholar-award/)] [[FSE PDS page](https://www.se.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/fees-and-funding/search-for-funding/presidents-doctoral-scholarship/)]
Successful scholars join an elite cohort, receive a President's Doctoral Scholar medal at graduation, and serve as ambassadors. Applications involve selecting advertised projects, contacting supervisors, and submitting via online portal with CV, statements, transcripts, and references. Shortlisting leads to panel interviews with a 10-minute project presentation. As of March 14, 2026, applications are in final days for most faculties. [[Humanities PDS page](https://www.humanities.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/funding/list-of-awards/presidents-doctoral-scholar-award/)]
Who can apply
- Hold or expect first-class honours undergraduate degree (or international equivalent) from a reputable institution.
- Ideally, hold Master's qualification at merit/distinction (or equivalent).
- Demonstrated track record of research engagement (e.g., publications, presentations, prizes, projects, outreach).
- Interest in networking events and cohort activities.
- Meet English language requirements if applicable (e.g., IELTS 7.0).
- Open to all nationalities; no restrictions.
- Faculty/project-specific: relevant background, quantitative skills, etc.
Contact
Phone: +44 (0) 161 306 6000 Email: pds@manchester.ac.uk
The University of Manchester Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL United Kingdom
