PhD Studentships in Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London
Three fully funded PhD positions across humanities, social sciences, and creative arts disciplines at a top UK research university.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a strong academic background in arts, humanities, or social sciences, seeking interdisciplinary PhD opportunities with full funding and mentorship in a vibrant research community.
Overview
Royal Holloway, University of London, is offering three fully funded PhD studentships under the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Doctoral Landscape Awards. These positions are designed for ambitious researchers seeking to advance interdisciplinary work in fields such as literature, history, media, law, politics, and creative arts. Applicants will collaborate with leading academics, benefit from a supportive research environment, and receive full tuition coverage plus a competitive stipend for up to 3.5 years, including a career-enhancing placement. The programme emphasizes innovation, mentorship, and the development of research leadership skills, aligning with Royal Holloway’s commitment to fostering excellence in humanities and social sciences.
What you'll do
- Conduct original, independent research under the guidance of a supervisory team in your chosen field of study.
- Develop and refine a research proposal in collaboration with your supervisor(s), aligning with the AHRC’s interdisciplinary focus.
- Engage in a 3-month career-enhancing placement to broaden research and professional skills.
- Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and seminars within Royal Holloway and beyond.
- Participate in the university’s Researcher Development programme to enhance academic and professional skills.
- Collaborate with peers and contribute to the vibrant postgraduate research community at Royal Holloway.
Requirements
Degree required: A relevant master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in arts, humanities, social sciences, or a related discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for doctoral study (typically equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90, if applicable).
Instruction: English
- Strong academic writing and research skills in arts, humanities, or social sciences.
- Ability to develop and execute an independent research project.
- Proficiency in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing scholarly sources.
- Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking.
- Open to UK and international applicants (30% of awards reserved for international students).
- Applicants must be available to start on Monday, 20 September 2027.
- No prior experience cap, but applicants should demonstrate potential for independent research.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-11 (Europe/London)
Applicants must first identify a supervisor and obtain their agreement to support the application. Submit your proposal (either your own or one proposed by a supervisor) through the Royal Holloway Applicant Portal. Ensure you follow the Applicant Information Guidance document and prepare all required documents before submission. The application process involves selecting a project from available ideas or proposing your own, aligning with the AHRC’s interdisciplinary focus.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research proposal (either applicant’s own or supervisor-proposed)
- Transcripts of previous degrees
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Department Postgraduate Leads· PhD Supervisor Contacts
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