PhD (via MPhil) Studentship in School of Engineering & Computing

University of Lancashire

Project Title: Will vary dependent on successful applicant

Applications are invited for a full time PhD (via MPhil) studentship in Astrophysics in the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute. The studentship is tenable for 3.5 years full-time (subject to satisfactory progress) and will cover the cost of tuition fees at UK rates together with a maintenance grant (£21,805 per year 2026/27 rates) for eligible applicants.

The studentship is funded by the Moses Holden Foundation. The studentship is open to international applicants; however international applicants will be required to pay the difference between the UK and international tuition fee rate.

The successful applicant will be required to comply with the terms of the funding.

Project description

The Jeremiah Horrocks Institute is pleased to announce the availability of a PhD Studentship in Astrophysics.

The project will be in one of the areas described here: www.star.uclan.ac.uk/phd-studentships-and-postgraduate-study, depending on the preference of the student ranked highest on the list of applicants (ranking will be carried out by JHI staff based on application forms, references, and interviews of short-listed candidates).

These projects are suggested opportunities offered by JHI staff. If you would like more details or would like to discuss something else related to their field of study, then please contact us directly.

Candidates should have (or expect to hold) a UK Bachelor of Science degree at 2:1 or above in a related area (or equivalent qualification), or a Masters level qualification (e.g. MSc or MPhys).

International applicants require an English Language level of UKVI IELTs 6.5 (no sub-score below 6.0) or equivalent qualification.

Further information

Informal project related enquiries about the post can be made to Prof. Derek Ward-Thompson (DWard-Thompson@lancashire.ac.uk) or Dr. Mark Norris (MNorris2@lancashire.ac.uk)  For further information on the range of research fields covered, see: www.star.uclan.ac.uk/phd-studentships-and-postgraduate-study

For full details go to: www.lancashire.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/studentships

Applications should be completed on our online application system, selecting the following options:

• Type of Study - Research Degree (Postgraduate)
• Course - Master of Philosophy/Doctor of Philosophy
• Campus - Preston Campus
• Mode of Study - Full Time

Please quote the Studentship reference number RS/26/01 on the application form. If you are interested in a specific project, please state clearly which one on your application.

Proposed Interview Date: Mid-April 2026

Expected Start Date: September 2026