Leicester invests in next generation of world-changing research

The University of Leicester has today (Thursday) announced a multimillion pound investment in the world-changing researchers of tomorrow.

Alongside presenting the University’s new Strategy, which will launch the institution into its second Century, plans have also been revealed for a £6 million investment in 100 PhD scholarships across all three Colleges over the next three years.

The scholarships are central to a new strategy, Citizens of Change: Our Second Century, which seeks to both reinforce and expand our world-changing research, research-inspired education and citizenship.

One hundred new PhD researchers will contribute to the strategic aim of driving ambitious innovation, research and enterprise in Leicester over the next decade, in a wide range of disciplines from space exploration to medicine, social inclusion to climate change – and a whole lot more in between.

Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Leicester, said: “It is an honour to announce this strategic investment to support 100 PhD researchers setting out on work to change the world for the better.

“Through celebrating our Centenary, we have had the chance to reflect on the individuals, concepts and ideas which have made our first 100 years a great success. Now, as we launch our second Century, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to world-changing research in all its forms.

“By funding an additional 100 PhD scholarships, we hope to provide the launchpad for the next generation of research leaders, whose impact will be felt far beyond Leicester.”

Leicester has a long-standing and proud research heritage. These new PhD scholarships, complementing our other investments in research, will be critical to the University’s strategic research mission which seeks to attract the brightest and most talented young investigators to join an environment where they can flourish and be successful.

As the University embarks on its second Century, it will also look to foster increased interdisciplinary excellence, through flagship research institutes and the Leicester Institute of Advanced Studies.   

Professor Philip Baker, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the University of Leicester, said: “This initiative has the opportunity to have a real impact in strengthening our research mission across the whole of the institution. I’ve long believed that PhD students are absolutely critical to our research objectives and this announcement is both timely and strategic, as we set out on our second Century.

“I look forward to welcoming the next generation of early-career researchers to Leicester and supporting them through our unique and inspiring research environment.”

Opportunities will be available within the College of Life Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, and College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities. All PhD researchers are supported by Leicester’s Doctoral College, which aims to nurture early-career researchers and equip them with the skills to create a real-world impact through their work.

PhDs funded by this initiative will commence in the 2022/23 academic year. Further details of how to apply for funding will be made available in due course.