The University of Manchester has launched its prestigious Bicentenary PhD Studentships and Fellowships, a groundbreaking £28 million initiative designed to support and develop over 200 early career researchers between 2025/26 and 2026/27. This program marks over 200 years of research-driven learning, innovation, and global impact at one of the world’s leading universities.

Through a combination of university funding and philanthropic support, the initiative aims to nurture the next generation of scholars, innovators, and change-makers who will contribute to the next century of research excellence.

About the Bicentenary PhD Studentships and Fellowships

The Bicentenary Studentships and Fellowships offer early career researchers the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Selected scholars will be part of a thriving academic community dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

The University particularly encourages research that crosses traditional boundaries and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration in the following key areas:

• Digital and Artificial Intelligence (including Robotics)
• Environment and Climate Change
• Health Inequalities
• Creative Industries
• Open Theme (Interdisciplinary Research Proposals Welcome)

Why Study or Research at Manchester?

The University of Manchester stands among the top global research institutions, known for its commitment to innovation, inclusion, and impact.

Key achievements include:

• Ranked 35th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026)
• 1st in Europe and 2nd globally for social and environmental impact (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings)
• 26 Nobel Prize winners among current and former staff and students
• 93% of research activity rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)

Manchester’s reputation as a global powerhouse of discovery is reinforced by its commitment to supporting researchers through exceptional resources, mentorship, and development programs.

Program Benefits

Successful applicants to the Bicentenary Studentships and Fellowships will receive:

• Comprehensive funding to support full-time research
• Access to Manchester Doctoral College (MDC), offering a vibrant community and professional development opportunities
• Tailored career development and leadership training
• Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across global research networks
• Support from the University’s dedicated Research Services and Researcher Development Teams

Postgraduate researchers and fellows benefit from world-class facilities, external partnerships, and an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Developing Your Research Career

At the University of Manchester, early career researchers are empowered to ask original questions, challenge assumptions, and create meaningful impact.

Postgraduate Researchers:
Become part of the Manchester Doctoral College community and benefit from extensive development programs, facilities, and mentorship.
Manchester’s Doctoral Training Programmes and Centres for Doctoral Training have secured £100 million in external investment from UKRI and major charities.

Research Fellows:
Join a community of over 100 fellows working across disciplines. Fellows receive tailored support to build their academic profiles, strengthen leadership skills, and translate research into real-world solutions.
Manchester holds the HR Excellence in Research Award (since 2011), recognizing its commitment to early career researcher support through the Research Staff Concordat.

Application Information

Applications are now open for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 cohorts.
Interested candidates are encouraged to explore research themes, eligibility criteria, and application details via the University of Manchester’s official website.

Apply here: Application

For more information: The University of Manchester

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth