Open-topic PhD Studentship within the School of Psychology University of Plymouth in United Kingdom

[Full Home tuition fees plus a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC) for three years. Overseas applicants may apply for a tuition fee waiver. No additional funding for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa costs, or flights.]

The University of Plymouth invites applications for a three-year Open-topic PhD Studentship within the School of Psychology, commencing 01 October 2026. This studentship offers the opportunity to join a vibrant, collaborative research community, with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including the Baby- and School-Lab and the Brain Research and Imaging Centre (BRIC). Research in the School spans a wide range of topics, including cognition, learning, memory, developmental psychology, emotion, health, clinical psychology, decision making, social psychology, and neuroscience. Applicants are encouraged to explore potential projects and research areas via the School’s research pages and individual academic profiles.

The studentship provides full Home tuition fees and a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC) for three years. Overseas applicants may apply for a tuition fee waiver, but must self-fund additional costs such as NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa fees, and travel. The fourth year of registration is a self-funded writing-up year. Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in Psychology or a closely related field, and preferably a relevant MSc or MRes qualification. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme’s minimum English requirements, including an academic IELTS score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component) or equivalent.

It is essential that candidates discuss their research proposal with their intended supervisor prior to submitting an application. Informal enquiries about projects and supervisors may be sent to Dr Patricia Kanngiesser, Postgraduate Research Coordinator. The School will only consider proposals supported by a supervisor. The University of Plymouth is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and particularly welcomes applications from under-represented groups.

The application deadline is 17 April 2026 (midnight, GMT). Interviews are expected to take place in early May. Applicants who have not received an offer by 31 August should consider their application unsuccessful. For further information, visit the School’s research and academic staff pages, and review the list of potential projects.