Society for the Study of Addiction

Applications are now open for PhD studentships and fellowships in addiction science from the Society for the Study of Addiction (SSA). This opportunity supports research on addiction, with no stated limitations on method, approach, population, or type of addiction. The call is especially relevant for applicants interested in addiction treatment, recovery, harm reduction, alcohol, illicit drugs, and the policy/practice impact of addiction research.

PhD funding includes a stipend of £20,780 per year (£22,780 with London weighting), up to £5,006 per year toward tuition fees, and up to £5,000 across the PhD for research and training costs. The SSA also notes two targeted Spring 2026 funding opportunities within the PhD round: one through the Addiction Healthcare Goals flagship research leadership programme and one in alcohol and mental health.

Fellowship funding includes a salary typically ranging from £35,000 to £50,000 plus up to £30,000 across the fellowship for research and training costs. The flagship fellowship scheme is designed to support research and impact on alcohol and drug treatment, recovery, and reduction of addiction-related harms.

Eligibility highlights: applications are particularly welcomed from people living in Wales or Northern Ireland, and from those wishing to combine research with clinical practice (for example nurses, midwives, pharmacists, doctors, and dentists). Registered professionals may apply for funding to cover full salary costs while continuing clinical work for up to 20% of the PhD or fellowship.

Deadline: all PhD studentship and fellowship applications close on 30 July 2026. Applicants should read the SSA funding page and apply online. Support is available for reasonable adjustments and eligibility questions.