Are you passionate about environmental and earth sciences and seeking a fully funded PhD opportunity in the UK? Applications are now open for the Central England NERC Training Alliance (CENTA) PhD Studentships 2026 entry, offering exceptional research and training opportunities across leading universities and research centres in the Midlands.

The CENTA Science Opportunity Scholarships (CSOS) are specifically designed to support Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) students who are eligible for Home fees and wish to begin their doctoral research in autumn 2026.

About the CENTA PhD Studentships

The Central England NERC Training Alliance (CENTA) is a collaborative consortium of research-intensive UK universities and research institutes funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). CENTA provides world-class doctoral training in Earth and Environmental Sciences, supporting interdisciplinary, impactful, and inclusive research.

CENTA offers two main PhD pathways:

Project-Based Studentships – linked to specific advertised research projects.

CENTA Science Opportunity Scholarships (CSOS) – available for eligible BAME Home students, offering the flexibility to co-design a PhD project with a CENTA supervisor.

Both pathways provide structured training, fieldwork opportunities, and access to professional development across CENTA’s partner institutions.

What the Studentship Covers

Successful applicants will receive a fully funded PhD package, which includes:

• Full tuition fees at the Home-student rate.
• A generous annual stipend (aligned with UKRI rates).
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) to cover research costs, fieldwork, and conference attendance.
• Access to cutting-edge facilities, interdisciplinary training, and mentorship from world-class researchers.
• This funding package ensures that all students can focus fully on their research without financial barriers.

Research Areas

CENTA supports a broad range of PhD projects within the NERC remit, covering:

• Earth system processes and geology
• Climate science and environmental change
• Biodiversity, ecology, and ecosystems
• Hydrology, water resources, and sustainability
• Atmospheric sciences
• Environmental technology and data modelling

Students will benefit from CENTA’s interdisciplinary focus, connecting science, policy, and practice to address the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Why Apply for a CENTA PhD Studentship

Choosing a CENTA PhD means joining a collaborative, supportive research network that empowers future environmental leaders.

Key benefits include:

• Fully funded 3.5–4 year studentships with stipend and research support
• World-class supervision across leading UK universities and research centres
• Opportunity to design your own PhD project under the CSOS scheme
• Advanced technical and transferable skills training
• Access to international conferences, workshops, and fieldwork
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and policy impact

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a CENTA PhD studentship (2026 entry), you must:

• Hold (or expect to obtain) at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or a pass at MSc level in a relevant discipline.
• Be eligible for Home fee status (for CSOS applicants).
• Demonstrate a strong interest in environmental or earth sciences research.
• Be committed to contributing to research excellence and scientific innovation.

For CSOS applicants:

• Open to Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME) students who are Home-fee eligible.
• Applicants will work with CENTA supervisors to co-design a project in their chosen area.

International applicants:

• Up to 30% of CENTA studentships may be awarded to international candidates.
• CENTA funds Home-level tuition only; international applicants must cover any fee differences or secure additional university funding.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

CENTA recognises that candidates come from diverse educational and personal backgrounds. Applicants who have experienced career breaks, caring responsibilities, illness, or other challenges are strongly encouraged to apply.

All applications are assessed individually and holistically. CENTA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive doctoral research community.

Application Process

Choose your pathway:

• Apply directly to a listed project-based studentship, or
• Apply for a CENTA Science Opportunity Scholarship (CSOS) if eligible.

Submit your application through the host university’s portal. Ensure you include:

• CENTA Studentship Application Form (2026 version)
• Your CV (including two referees)
• Host university’s application form
• EDI survey receipt number

Note: Applications without the CENTA Studentship Application Form will not be considered.

Timeline and Key Dates

Deadline: 7 January 2026 (23:59 GMT)

Interviews: February 2026 (conducted online)

Start Dates: July 2026 (limited) or Autumn 2026

Applicants shortlisted after review will be invited for an online interview by the host university’s recruitment team.

The CENTA PhD Studentships 2026 offer a unique opportunity to advance environmental and earth sciences research while developing as a skilled, confident, and connected researcher.

Whether your interests lie in climate change, biodiversity, hydrology, or sustainability, CENTA’s inclusive doctoral training environment will empower you to make a lasting impact.

Apply today and begin your journey toward a research career that contributes to a sustainable future.

Application Deadline: 7 January 2026 (23:59 GMT)

Apply here: Application

For more information: CENTA

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth