Fully Funded PhD Studentships in Community-Focused Research Across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Collaboratory Research Hub (projects hosted at De Montfort University, University of Leicester, Loughborough University, Nottingham Trent University, University of Nottingham) in

The Collaboratory Research Hub is offering 21 fully funded PhD studentships for 2026, focusing on research projects that address pressing challenges in local communities across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland. These three-year, full-time positions are designed for candidates who are passionate about making a real difference through community-engaged research. The programme is supported by Research England and a partnership of leading universities, including Nottingham Trent University, University of Nottingham, University of Leicester, De Montfort University, and Loughborough University.

Research topics span a wide range of community-relevant issues, such as social justice, health inequalities, educational interventions, environmental sustainability, and inclusive leadership. Example projects include building inclusive bereavement support systems, co-creating safer futures between communities and police, enhancing flood wardens' roles, addressing health inequalities through sports and education, improving home retrofits for health and fuel poverty, and supporting South-Asian children's wellbeing. Each project is led by a PhD candidate and supported by teams of university researchers and local community partners.

The studentships provide comprehensive funding, including tuition fees and a stipend, along with training and support throughout the programme. Collaboratory is committed to inclusive recruitment, aiming to attract a diverse range of talented individuals. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, typically holding a relevant undergraduate or master's degree and demonstrating strong research potential and community commitment. Project-specific requirements are detailed in individual adverts.

Applications must be submitted via the online forms provided on the Collaboratory Research Hub website. CVs and email applications are not accepted. The application deadline is 11:59 pm on Sunday, 30 November 2025. Information webinars and drop-in sessions are available to help candidates prepare strong applications and learn more about the programme. Successful candidates will be notified by 23 December 2025, with interviews scheduled in January and February 2026, and the programme commencing in April 2026.

This is a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers to contribute to meaningful change in their communities while receiving full financial support and professional development. For more information, visit the Collaboratory Research Hub website and review the available projects and eligibility criteria.