Durham University Transformative Humanities PhD Studentships 2027: Fully Funded PhD Opportunity for Home and Overseas Students
Overview
Durham University is offering up to eleven PhD Studentships for candidates starting their doctoral programmes in October 2027. This competitive funding opportunity supports research projects connected to the university’s Transformative Humanities framework, placing an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration across academic departments. The scheme is supported by the AHRC Doctoral Landscape Award alongside Durham University's Faculty of Arts and Humanities and Faculty of Social Sciences.
Who can apply
The competition is open to both home and overseas applicants who are accepted onto a PhD programme at Durham University. Of the available positions, up to nine awards are designated for home students, while up to two awards are available for overseas students. Candidates must be accepted into the university with a supervisory team led by the Faculty of Arts and Humanities or the Faculty of Social Sciences, and the supervision must involve collaboration across at least two departments. Prospective applicants are advised to contact potential supervisors prior to applying to discuss their proposed projects and ensure they fit departmental expertise.
What you get
Successful recipients receive a tuition fee waiver covering either home or overseas student levels depending on the award type. In addition, awardees receive a doctoral stipend set at the level established by UK Research and Innovation. The stipend is provided for 3.5 years of full-time study or 7 years of part-time study. Students also gain access to research development opportunities, training resources, placement resources, and additional funding opportunities.
Requirements
Applicants must submit a research proposal that addresses the themes of the Transformative Humanities framework. Materials must clearly explain the research questions, context, intended approach, methods, relevance to Transformative Humanities, and alignment with Durham University. Candidates must also satisfy the general PhD admission requirements for their chosen subject at the university.
How to apply
Candidates must complete the required application materials, develop a research proposal, and arrange references. It is recommended that applicants reach out to potential supervisors before submitting their applications to evaluate project alignment.
Key dates
The application deadline is noon UK time on 15 January 2027. Successful candidates will begin their doctoral programmes in October 2027.