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Science and Technology Studies PhD and MSc by Research at the University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom
Degree Level
Master's, PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
No programme-specific funding is guaranteed. Students are expected to combine sources such as loans, family support, savings, employment, employer sponsorship and scholarships to cover tuition and living costs. Featured funding includes School of Social and Political Science Scholarships and UK Research Council Awards. Tuition fees apply; University of Edinburgh graduates may be eligible for a 10% tuition-fee discount. Estimated postgraduate living costs in Edinburgh for 2026–2027 are £18,504 pe
Deadline
Jun 29, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Edinburgh
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About this position
The University of Edinburgh invites applications for postgraduate research study in Science and Technology Studies (STS), offering both a PhD and an MSc by Research (MScR) for September 2027 entry. The programmes are based in the School of Social and Political Science within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
The MScR develops research skills in the social sciences with a specific focus on STS and is recommended as preparation for many students intending to pursue a PhD. It can be completed full-time in one year or part-time in two years. The PhD normally takes three years full-time or six years part-time and requires an original contribution to knowledge.
Research opportunities span energy, environment and sustainability; innovation in life sciences; social studies of biology and medicine; historical approaches to science, technology and medicine; and data and society. Further interests include the history and philosophy of science, social shaping of technology, sociology of knowledge, research policy, science and technology in low- and middle-income countries, science and technology gender studies, energy transitions, environmental sustainability, and public engagement with science.
Applicants should contact potential supervisors before applying. PhD applicants may contact admissions adviser Dr Ben Collier, while MScR applicants may contact on-course adviser and Programme Director Professor James Mittra. Direct PhD entry normally requires postgraduate training in STS concepts, methodologies and research methods; candidates without this background are generally encouraged to apply through the one-year MScR followed by a PhD. The University welcomes non-standard career pathways and experience.
Applications require a personal statement, relevant training or knowledge, a research proposal, two references, degree certificates and transcripts, and applicable English-language evidence. The application fee is waived because there is no fee to apply. The deadline is 29 June 2027, although applications may close earlier if demand is exceptionally high. Funding is not guaranteed, but applicants can explore School of Social and Political Science Scholarships, UK Research Council Awards and other scholarships. Tuition fees and living costs are normally the student’s responsibility.
Funding details
No programme-specific funding is guaranteed. Students are expected to combine sources such as loans, family support, savings, employment, employer sponsorship and scholarships to cover tuition and living costs. Featured funding includes School of Social and Political Science Scholarships and UK Research Council Awards. Tuition fees apply; University of Edinburgh graduates may be eligible for a 10% tuition-fee discount. Estimated postgraduate living costs in Edinburgh for 2026–2027 are £18,504 pe
What's required
Applicants need a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent and a UK master's degree with an overall mark of 65% or international equivalent. Direct PhD applicants are generally expected to have postgraduate-level training in Science and Technology Studies concepts and methodologies, including research training; applicants without an STS or related master's are usually advised to apply for the 1+3 MScR-to-PhD route. Applicants must contact potential supervisors before applying and submit a personal statement, relevant knowledge/training skills, a research proposal, two references, degree certificates and transcripts, and evidence of English-language proficiency where applicable. English requirements can be met through accepted tests, an eligible degree taught and assessed in English, or certain professional qualifications. PhD proposals should be no more than four A4 pages, excluding references and bibliography. Non-standard career pathways and experience are welcomed.
How to apply
Contact potential supervisors to discuss your research proposal and secure agreement in principle. Prepare the required documents, then apply online through the programme page by 29 June 2027; select the desired MScR or PhD award, duration and study mode.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.