Applications are now open for the 2026 round of the University of Exeter EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) Studentships.
The University of Exeter, in collaboration with the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), invites exceptional students to apply for up to 15 fully funded PhD studentships starting in September 2026. The University of Exeter EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) is an annual program aimed at fostering advanced research in digital tchnology, mathematics, physics, chemistry and other related fields.
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About the EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is the UK’s leading funding body for research in engineering and the physical sciences. Its research areas cover:
- Digital technologies and artificial intelligence
- Clean and renewable energy
- Advanced manufacturing and materials
- Mathematics, physics, and data science
- Chemistry and related disciplines
Through the EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership, the University of Exeter supports cutting-edge research that solves real-world challenges while nurturing the next generation of scientific innovators.
Programme Overview
The University of Exeter EPSRC DTP 2026 adopts a student-focused application process. Applicants are expected to engage directly with a potential supervisor before applying.
Steps to Apply:
- Identify a potential supervisor conducting research in your chosen area.
- Develop a short research proposal with the supervisor’s guidance (see EPSRC DTP Application Form – Research Summary).
- Submit your application to the department in which your supervisor is based.
The University particularly welcomes multidisciplinary projects and research proposals with industry or external collaboration potential.
Selection Process
Applications are competitively assessed based on:
- Academic excellence and research potential
- Strength of references
- Quality and feasibility of the research proposal
- Applicant’s motivation and alignment with EPSRC research priorities
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in March 2026, and successful applicants will receive offers in April 2026.
Funding and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a fully funded PhD studentship package that includes:
- Full tuition fees (for Home students)
- Annual stipend of £18,622 for up to 3.5 years full-time (or pro-rata for part-time)
- Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £5,000 for research expenses
This comprehensive funding covers tuition, living costs, and research-related expenses, allowing students to focus fully on their doctoral studies.
Why Choose the University of Exeter for Your PhD?
- Globally recognized for research excellence and innovation.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities.
- Supportive academic environment and opportunities for industry collaboration.
- Ranked among the top UK universities for engineering and physical sciences research.
How to Apply for the University of Exeter EPSRC PhD Studentships 2026
- Explore potential supervisors on the University’s website.
- Contact your chosen supervisor to discuss your research idea.
- Prepare your EPSRC DTP Application Form and Research Summary.
- Submit your application to the relevant department by the published deadline.
Early engagement with supervisors is strongly encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)?
The EPSRC DTP is a funding scheme that supports PhD students in the UK across disciplines in engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, and technology. It provides financial support for tuition, living costs, and research training.
2. Is the University of Exeter PhD studentship fully funded?
Yes. Each studentship covers full tuition fees, a generous annual stipend, and a Research Training Support Grant to cover research-related expenses.
3. Can international students apply for the Exeter EPSRC DTP 2026?
While EPSRC funding primarily supports Home (UK) students, a limited number of awards may be available to exceptional international applicants. Interested candidates should confirm eligibility with their prospective supervisor or department.
4. What is the value of the EPSRC PhD stipend at Exeter?
The stipend for is £18,622 per year, indexed annually to reflect cost-of-living adjustments. The funding lasts for up to 3.5 years full-time.
5. When is the deadline to apply for the 2026 entry?
Exact deadlines may vary by department. However, applicants are advised to submit before March 2026 to be considered for shortlisting and interviews.
6. How do I find a supervisor at the University of Exeter?
Visit the University’s research staff directory or browse departmental pages to identify academic staff working in your area of interest.
7. What types of research projects are encouraged?
The University welcomes projects across EPSRC priority areas including digital innovation, clean energy, advanced materials, chemistry, mathematics, and data science with emphasis on multidisciplinary and industry-linked studies.
8. When do successful candidates begin their PhD?
Successful applicants will commence their fully funded PhD in September 2026.
Learn More and Apply
For full details, supervisor listings, and departmental contacts, visit the official University of Exeter EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) page
