SEDarc ESRC PhD Studentships 2027 in the UK | Fully Funded Doctoral Opportunities
The South East Doctoral Training Arc (SEDarc) provides Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded PhD studentships for September 2027 entry across six participating universities in London and South East England. These fully funded opportunities support social sciences research through advanced training, placements, and interdisciplinary pathways.
Overview
The South East Doctoral Training Arc (SEDarc) offers Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded PhD studentships for September 2027 entry. Successful candidates undertake doctoral study at one of six participating higher education institutions in London and South East England. The standard PhD lasts 3.5 years full-time, including a three-month placement, or the part-time equivalent.
Students can be based at the following participating universities:
- University of Kent
- Kingston University
- University of Reading
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- University of Surrey
- University of Sussex
The programme operates across five interdisciplinary, challenge-led research pathways: Living Sustainably, Healthy Thriving Communities, Inclusive Economic Growth, Secure, Effective, & Trusted Institutions, and Transformative Technologies for Society.
Benefits
- Full coverage of UK tuition fees
- A stipend at the UKRI rate
- A three-month placement
- Research and skills training
- Potential funding for an approved Master’s course within the SEDarc consortium for eligible students without a relevant social-science Master’s degree
- Coverage of the difference between UK home and international tuition fees for successful overseas applicants (note that the University of Reading is an exception and does not cover this difference)
Eligibility
The studentships are open to both UK and international applicants who meet the academic requirements of their chosen institution and programme. SEDarc also reserves up to three ring-fenced scholarships for eligible home students from certain Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups.
How to Apply
Applicants cannot apply directly to SEDarc without institutional nomination. Candidates must first complete the application process through their chosen participating university.
- Choose one of the six participating SEDarc institutions and identify a suitable doctoral research area and pathway.
- Contact the SEDarc administrator at the chosen university and follow its specific institutional application procedure and earlier deadline.
- Obtain nomination from the university.
- Submit the SEDarc studentship application by the final consortium deadline.
Deadline
The main SEDarc studentship application deadline is 29 January 2027 at 16:00 GMT. Applicants must note that participating universities maintain their own earlier internal deadlines and procedures.