The University College London (UCL) EPSRC Landscape Award (UELA) is proud to announce an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students aspiring to pursue doctoral research in Science and Engineering. The award offers 50 fully funded, 4-year PhD studentships, beginning in October 2026, aimed at fostering the next generation of researchers capable of addressing some of the world’s most pressing scientific, technological, and societal challenges.

This initiative underscores UCL’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global leadership in research, providing doctoral candidates with the resources, mentorship, and collaborative environment necessary to thrive at the forefront of their fields. The UELA program represents a cornerstone in UCL’s mission to nurture talent in areas critical to the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) remit, including energy and decarbonisation, artificial intelligence, robotics, healthcare technologies, and other key areas of contemporary research.

Why Choose UCL for Your PhD?

UCL is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, renowned for its research excellence, multidisciplinary collaborations, and international impact. With faculties leading globally in multiple fields, UCL offers a unique environment where students can explore innovative ideas, work alongside eminent researchers, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.

PhD students at UCL benefit from:

• World-class research facilities: Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, computational resources, and experimental platforms across a wide range of scientific disciplines.
• Distinguished academic mentorship: Guidance from leading scholars and industry experts who are actively shaping research agendas and policy.
• Global research networks: Opportunities for collaboration with international partners, fostering cross-cultural perspectives and professional growth.
• Comprehensive support structures: Including dedicated training programs, workshops, and resources tailored to doctoral development.

UELA is designed not only to cultivate technical expertise but also to develop transferable skills in research management, project leadership, and communication, preparing students for careers in academia, industry, and public service.

UELA Studentships: What’s on Offer?

The UELA PhD studentships provide a fully funded pathway for aspiring researchers, covering tuition, living costs, training, and additional research expenses. Key features include:

1. Financial Support

• Full tuition coverage for 4 years, including an award to cover the additional fee for international students.
• Enhanced stipend at the UELA rate of £23,466 (2026/27), with annual increases to reflect living cost adjustments.
• Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £5,000 per student to cover additional costs such as:
  • Specialized courses
  • Conference attendance and travel
  • Project-specific training or fieldwork
  • Equipment and software necessary for research

These provisions ensure students can focus fully on their doctoral research without financial constraints, enabling engagement in both intensive academic work and professional development activities.

2. Flexibility in Study Mode

• Students may opt for full-time or part-time study.
• Part-time PhD durations and stipends are adjusted pro-rata, allowing candidates to balance academic work with other professional commitments.

3. Extensive Project Options

• The UELA program offers over 100 projects across diverse scientific and engineering disciplines.
• Candidates can apply for up to 5 projects, aligning their research interests with the expertise of UCL supervisors.
• Projects span EPSRC priority areas, such as:
  • Energy and decarbonisation: Innovative approaches to renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental impact.
  • Artificial intelligence & robotics: Advanced computational systems, automation, and intelligent machine learning.
  • Healthcare technologies: Medical devices, digital health, and translational research in biomedicine.
  • Physical sciences and mathematical sciences: Fundamental and applied research across physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

This broad selection ensures that students can find a project that matches both their passion and career ambitions, while contributing to globally relevant research challenges.

Apply here!

Eligibility Criteria

UELA studentships are open to both Home (UK) and International students, with up to 15 studentships specifically available to international candidates. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and motivation for pursuing a PhD in Science and Engineering.

Key eligibility criteria include:

• Academic qualifications: A strong undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of Science or Engineering.
• Research aptitude: Demonstrated ability to undertake independent research through prior projects, internships, or academic experience.
• Citizenship/Residency: Open to UK, EU, and international candidates; up to 15 awards allocated to international students.
• Application through the UELA portal: Applicants must complete online application forms in accordance with instructions on the UELA website.

UELA also places a strong emphasis on diversity and equality of opportunity. All applications are reviewed anonymously, and candidates from underrepresented groups, including Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) students, are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application Process

The application process is designed to be transparent, accessible, and rigorous, ensuring that candidates with the strongest academic and research potential are selected. Steps include:

1. Project Selection: Review the UELA project catalogue and select up to 5 projects aligning with your research interests.
2. Online Application: Complete the official online form, providing:
   • Academic transcripts
   • Personal statement and research motivation
   • Letters of recommendation (as required)
   • CV highlighting relevant experience and achievements
3. Submission Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 13:00 UK time on 5th January 2026.
4. Review and Shortlisting: Applications are reviewed by a panel of experts, who assess academic potential, alignment with project goals, and the applicant’s contribution to the field.
5. Interviews/Additional Assessment: Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interviews or additional assessments to determine suitability for specific projects.
6. Notification of Outcome: Successful applicants will be notified in due course, with details on enrolment, funding allocation, and programme orientation.

Apply here!

Benefits of the UELA Programme

Academic and Research Excellence

• Immersive research experience with world-leading supervisors.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory and computational resources.
• Exposure to multidisciplinary research approaches.

Professional Development

• Participation in workshops, seminars, and conferences.
• Skill-building in project management, scientific communication, and data analysis.
• Networking opportunities with industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers worldwide.

Financial Security

• Full tuition and stipend coverage ensure no financial barriers to PhD completion.
• RTSG funding supports advanced training, fieldwork, and professional engagement.

Global Impact

• Contribute to solutions for pressing scientific, technological, and societal challenges.
• Engage in research with implications for energy transition, digital innovation, healthcare advancements, and sustainability.
• Join a network of globally-minded researchers influencing policy, industry, and academia.

UCL’s Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

UCL is committed to fostering an inclusive research environment where all students, regardless of background, can thrive. The UELA programme prioritizes:

• Anonymous application review to minimize bias.
• Encouragement of BME and underrepresented candidates to apply.
• Supportive research environment promoting equity and respect.

Diversity is recognized as a driver of innovation, creativity, and research excellence, ensuring that PhD cohorts reflect the global scientific community.

Key Dates

Early preparation is recommended, including:

• Identifying suitable projects
• Gathering transcripts and references
• Preparing a compelling personal statement

How to Apply

Applications are submitted exclusively online through the UELA portal. For detailed instructions, project catalogue, and application forms, visit:

UCL EPSRC Landscape Award – Apply Here

Contact Information

For enquiries regarding eligibility, application procedures, or project selection:

Email: uela@ucl.ac.uk
Website: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/research/epsrc-landscape-award

UELA staff are available to guide applicants through the process, ensuring all prospective students have the resources needed for a successful application.

Apply here!

Conclusion

The UCL EPSRC Landscape Award (UELA) PhD studentships represent an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring scientists and engineers to advance their careers through rigorous research, professional development, and global networking. By offering full financial support, access to world-class supervision, and a rich catalogue of research projects, the programme prepares doctoral candidates to become leaders in innovation, technology, and scientific discovery.

With applications closing on 5th January 2026, prospective PhD students are encouraged to act promptly, explore the project catalogue, and submit strong applications. UELA offers the resources, mentorship, and environment needed to transform ambition into impact, ensuring that graduates are equipped to tackle the challenges of the modern world with knowledge, creativity, and determination.

Start your journey with UCL’s EPSRC Landscape Award today — apply and become a part of the next generation of pioneering researchers shaping the future of science and engineering.

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