Queen’s University Belfast, in partnership with the China Scholarship Council, is offering up to 20 fully funded PhD scholarships for Chinese students commencing studies in the 2026-27 academic year. These scholarships are open to candidates interested in research areas such as antibiotic resistance evolution, with supervision available from leading academics including Rachel Wheatley, UKRI Future Leaders Fellow and Group Leader. The program is designed for students from China who wish to pursue advanced research in biology and medical science, particularly focusing on the mechanisms and evolution of antibiotic resistance.

Successful applicants will receive full coverage of international PhD tuition fees for up to three years, plus a thesis-only writing up charge. The China Scholarship Council will provide a maintenance stipend, round-trip airfare from China to the UK, and visa application fee support. Bench fees are waived or covered by the relevant supervisor or department. The scholarship is contingent on continued funding by the CSC and satisfactory academic progress at Queen’s University Belfast.

Eligibility requirements include holding citizenship and permanent residency in China (PRC passport required), with the obligation to return to China after completing the degree. Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree with good grades (UK 2:1 equivalent or higher) and a Master’s degree from a recognized institution. Exceptionally, candidates with outstanding Bachelor’s grades may be considered without a Master’s. English language proficiency must be demonstrated by 27 January 2026, with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) or TOEFL iBT 90 (with specified minimums). Higher English requirements may apply for certain schools, such as Business, Law, Psychology, Pharmacy, and Architecture.

Interested candidates should consult the Queen’s University Belfast website for detailed eligibility and application instructions. The application deadline is 27 January 2026. For further information or queries, applicants can contact the International Scholarships Office at [email protected].

This opportunity is ideal for Chinese students passionate about biological and medical research, especially those interested in tackling global health challenges like antibiotic resistance. The program offers access to world-class facilities, expert supervision, and a vibrant research community at Queen’s University Belfast.