At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in groundbreaking research within the physical sciences and develop your academic skills.
- Company: The Open University, a leader in STEM education and research.
- Benefits: Fully funded studentship with a stipend, tuition coverage, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative research community with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in physical sciences while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
The School of Physical Sciences within the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at The Open University is inviting applications for two full time, fully funded STFC PhD studentships commencing on 1 October 2026. These studentships are structured for an initial period of 3 years and 3 months, with the potential for a further 3 month extension to support research completion and skill development.
Each studentship provides a research training environment that supports academic growth, access to specialist facilities and collaborative opportunities within the School's research community. Eligible projects span key areas of physical sciences research, with detailed project descriptions available on the School's postgraduate research pages.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must meet UKRI academic eligibility requirements for funding consideration. Typically this includes holding at least a 2:1 honours degree at UK B.Sc. or M.Sc. level or equivalent; additional academic criteria may apply depending on specific project requirements.
- Applicants should ensure they meet funding and residency criteria as defined by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) regulations.
Required Expertise/Skills
- Candidates are expected to demonstrate research potential in a relevant subject area of physical sciences or closely related disciplines.
- Strong academic credentials, evidence of analytical and critical thinking abilities, and genuine interest in research inquiry are essential.
- Specific technical or theoretical expertise may be outlined in individual project descriptions on the School's PhD studentship listings.
Salary Details
Students will receive a research stipend of £21,805 per annum at the 2026/27 UKRI rate to support living costs throughout the studentship. The award also covers home student tuition fees and includes provisions for additional training and development support to enhance research skills.
Application Deadline
Completed applications for these PhD studentships must be received by 17:00 on 31 March 2026.
PhD Studentships - School of Physical Sciences in Milton Keynes employer: Job Search Place Limited
The Open University is an exceptional employer, offering PhD studentships that provide a fully funded research training environment within the vibrant School of Physical Sciences. Located in Milton Keynes, the university fosters a collaborative work culture, prioritising academic growth and skill development, while also providing access to specialist facilities and a supportive research community. With competitive stipends and opportunities for further training, The Open University is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of researchers in physical sciences.
