Are you an international student looking to pursue a world-class PhD in social sciences? The Social, Economic & Data Research Centre (SEDarc) is offering up to 39 fully funded PhD studentships for the 2026-27 academic year. These studentships provide an exceptional opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, gain professional experience, and access a rich network of academic and non-academic partners.
What Are SEDarc PhD Studentships?
SEDarc studentships are designed to support postgraduate researchers in undertaking impactful doctoral research across five interdisciplinary pathways:
- Living Sustainably – Explore solutions for environmental and social sustainability.
- Healthy Thriving Communities – Investigate health, wellbeing, and social cohesion.
- Inclusive Economic Growth – Study policies and practices promoting economic equity.
- Secure, Effective, & Trusted Institutions – Examine governance, trust, and institutional development.
- Transformative Technologies for Society – Research the societal impact of emerging technologies.
Each pathway emphasizes high-quality research training, professional placements, and advanced skill development.
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Who Can Apply?
SEDarc welcomes applications from UK and international students. However, applicants cannot have already started a PhD. Some studentships are ring-fenced for home students from underrepresented ethnic groups, highlighting SEDarc’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
International students will benefit from full support covering UK tuition fees, while SEDarc institutions cover any differences in international fees. A competitive stipend is provided, offering financial stability throughout your PhD journey.
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Program Structure
- Duration: 3.5 years full-time (plus a 3-month professional placement) or part-time equivalent
- Integrated Master’s + PhD: Up to 4.25 years for those without a prior social science master’s
- Training: 200 hours of general research skills in Year 1, plus 200 hours of specialist skills in Years 2 and 3
- Placement Opportunities: Funded placements in academia, policy, business, or the third sector
- Additional Funding: Support for fieldwork, overseas visits, or difficult language training
This structure ensures that PhD candidates not only gain academic expertise but also develop professional experience and interdisciplinary collaboration skills.
Also Check: Shanghai Jiao Tong University Scholarships 2026 in China
How to Apply
Applications must be nominated by one of the six SEDarc partner institutions:
- Kingston University
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- University of Kent
- University of Reading
- University of Surrey
- University of Sussex
Important Dates: The deadline for SEDarc applications is 30 January 2026 at 16:00 GMT. Only one application per student is allowed. Applicants should identify a potential supervisor at their chosen institution before applying.
Why Choose SEDarc?
- Access to a world-class research network with partnerships in academia, government, and industry
- Interdisciplinary training across multiple social science fields
- Funded placements and fieldwork opportunities
- Supportive environment committed to diversity and inclusion
- Structured development in data skills, quantitative methods, and cross-disciplinary collaboration
The SEDarc PhD studentships represent an unparalleled opportunity for international students to advance their careers in social science research while making a tangible impact on society. If you are passionate about research, eager to develop professional skills, and want to study in a transformative, interdisciplinary environment, this is your chance to apply.
Visit the SEDarc website to explore eligibility criteria, pathways, and application guidance. Don’t miss the chance to join the 2026 cohort and transform your research ambitions into reality.
