STFC Doctoral Training 2026

STFC Doctoral Training is doctoral-level funding provided by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), part of UK Research and Innovation in the United Kingdom. It supports students undertaking PhD research in disciplines within STFC's remit, including areas such as physics, astronomy, computing, instrumentation, accelerator science and related technologies.

The programme is usually delivered through UK universities, doctoral training partnerships, centres for doctoral training, or individual funded studentships rather than through a single central application route. Funding commonly contributes toward tuition fees and a maintenance stipend, and some awards may also include research training support or travel related to the PhD project, depending on the host department and award structure.

These studentships are generally intended for applicants with a strong academic background who meet the entry requirements for a relevant PhD programme at a participating UK institution. Eligibility can depend on UK research council residency rules and on the specific project or training programme. Some opportunities are open to international applicants, while others may prioritise home students or offer different fee coverage arrangements for international candidates.

Prospective applicants should identify an STFC-funded PhD project or doctoral training programme at a UK university, check the detailed eligibility and residency rules for that opportunity, and then apply through the host university's admissions or studentship process. Because terms vary by institution and project, applicants should always confirm funding coverage, deadlines, and document requirements directly with the university or department advertising the studentship.