PhD Studentships in Urban Governance, City Innovation, and European Cities at LSE London School of Economics and Political Science in

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) announces the Bloomberg Philanthropies PhD Studentships for 2026 entry, targeting ambitious researchers passionate about urban futures, city governance, and innovation in European cities. This prestigious studentship is available across the Departments of Government, Geography, Management, and Sociology, supporting original and impactful research on city government innovation, urban governance and leadership, critical uncertainties shaping cities, and the evolving challenges of European urban life.

A unique feature of this studentship is its collaborative model, where city governments act as co-hosting institutions. Students will not only conduct advanced research but also engage directly with policymakers, administrators, and urban networks, gaining hands-on experience in shaping the future of cities. The studentship offers full tuition fees, an annual stipend of at least £22,780 (2025/26 rate), and additional funding for engagement with city administrations and urban governance networks. Co-supervision opportunities with world-leading LSE Cities faculty are also provided.

Eligible programmes include MRes/PhD Political Science (Urban Governance focus), MPhil/PhD Human Geography and Urban Studies, MPhil/PhD Regional and Urban Planning Studies, MPhil/PhD Management – Information Systems & Innovation (Urban Management focus), and MPhil/PhD Sociology (Cities focus). Students of all nationalities are welcome to apply, though there is a cap on the number of awardees per country. Applicants should have a strong academic background relevant to their chosen field and a demonstrated interest in urban governance, city innovation, or European urban futures.

To apply, candidates must submit two separate applications: one for the PhD programme via the LSE application portal and another for the Bloomberg Philanthropies Studentship via the studentship link. Both applications must be submitted before the funding deadline listed on each programme page, and early submission is strongly recommended. For further questions, applicants can contact Keenan Collett, Student & Professional Development Manager, at [email protected].