Fully Funded LISS DTP 2026 Open Competition – Doctoral Training Studentships in Social Sciences

Apply for the fully funded LISS DTP 2026 Doctoral Training Studentships in social sciences at King’s College London, Imperial College, and Queen Mary. Deadline: January 23, 2026.

About the LISS DTP 2026 Studentships

The London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS DTP) is a highly competitive program funded by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). It provides fully funded studentships for exceptional candidates pursuing advanced research in the social sciences.

The 2026 Open Competition is now accepting applications for entry in October 2026. The studentships are available in two formats:

• 1+3.5 pathway: One-year Master’s program followed by 3.5 years of PhD research.

• +3.5 pathway: 3.5 years of PhD research for applicants who already hold a relevant Master’s degree.

This studentship is offered collaboratively by King’s College London, Imperial College London, and Queen Mary University of London, giving candidates access to world-class research environments and interdisciplinary resources.

Why This Studentship Matters

The LISS DTP Studentship is designed to nurture future leaders in social research who will address pressing global challenges — from health inequalities and education reform to sustainability, data ethics, and governance.

Through a combination of academic excellence, interdisciplinary training, and community engagement, this program prepares doctoral students to produce impactful research and contribute to real-world change.

Participants benefit from professional development, advanced research training, and access to internships and placements with leading public and private organizations.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability, research potential, and a commitment to social science inquiry.

To apply, candidates must:

• Be applying to one of the partner institutions (King’s, Imperial, or Queen Mary).

• Meet UK residency and eligibility criteria as outlined on the LISS DTP website.

• Have a first-class or upper-second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent).

• Hold, or plan to obtain, a Master’s qualification for the PhD-only route (+3.5).

• Provide a strong research proposal aligned with one of LISS DTP’s interdisciplinary pathways.

Both UK and international students are welcome to apply.

Key Research Areas

The LISS DTP supports research across the full spectrum of social sciences, including but not limited to:

• Political science and public policy

• Sociology and social justice

• Economics and business analytics

• Education and language studies

• Environment and sustainability

• Global health and governance

Each pathway integrates rigorous academic supervision with professional training, ensuring that funded students develop both disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight.

How to Apply

Applications for the LISS DTP 2026 Studentships must be submitted through the official online portal.

Deadline: 23 January 2026, 17:00 GMT
Apply here: https://liss-dtp.ac.uk/apply

Application Steps:

1. Check your residency and eligibility status on the LISS DTP website.

2. Identify a potential supervisor and research area.

3. Apply for admission to your chosen institution (King’s, Imperial, or Queen Mary).

4. Complete and submit the LISS DTP application form via the portal.

5. Ensure all sections and references are submitted before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to attend the online briefing session on 3 December 2025 (10:00–11:30 GMT) and the application workshop on 14 November 2025 (12:00–14:00 GMT) to enhance the quality of their submission.

Selection Timeline

• Applications Open: 23 October 2025

• Workshop: 14 November 2025

• Online Briefing Session: 3 December 2025

• Deadline: 23 January 2026, 17:00 GMT

• Offer Letters Issued: Week of 27 April 2026

Shortlisted candidates will be evaluated on academic record, research potential, and proposal quality. Successful applicants will receive a formal offer by late April 2026.

What the Studentship Covers

The LISS DTP Studentship provides:

• Full coverage of tuition fees (home or international rate).

• A generous annual living stipend aligned with ESRC funding standards.

• Research and training support funds.

• Access to a wide range of interdisciplinary workshops, placements, and mentoring opportunities.

The program ensures that doctoral candidates receive both financial stability and institutional support throughout their research journey.

Why Apply

This is one of the UK’s most respected doctoral funding opportunities in the social sciences, offering complete financial support, professional development, and entry into a powerful research network.

If you are driven by curiosity, committed to academic excellence, and ready to explore social challenges through research, this studentship could be the foundation of your career.

Deadline: 23 January 2026, 17:00 GMT
Apply here: https://liss-dtp.ac.uk/apply

The LISS DTP 2026 Open Competition represents a chance to pursue doctoral studies in a world-leading environment that combines interdisciplinary expertise, innovative training, and a strong focus on impact. Start your academic journey today and become part of a global community of social science researchers shaping a better future.

For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth.

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