Apply

Our list of fully funded PhD projects for 2027 can be found here.

Please note that you can submit your application to a maximum of 3 projects.

• A minimum 2.1 or higher in a relevant undergraduate degree or a relevant masters degree in
  • Engineering,
  • Physics,
  • Mathematics,
  • Computer Science,
  • Audiology or Hearing Sciences,
  • Acoustics,
  • Psychology,
  • Environmental Science or another subject with relevance to your selected PhD project(s).
    
• Check each individual project description for project-specific relevant qualifications and knowledge.
  
• INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
  
  • must demonstrate a required level of English Language Proficiency by achieving a minimum level of 6.5 in IELTS or equivalent in accepted English language qualifications.
    
  • are subject to relevant UKVI student visa and Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) regulations.

Our fully funded 4 year studentships offer:

• A tax-free stipend based on the standard UKRI rate (£21,805 per year 2026/27). Increases annually in line with inflation.
  
• Tuition fees fully paid.
  
• Research Training Support Grant (RTSG), which covers costs of carrying out research such as lab consumables, travel to conferences, access to facilities etc. (£16,400 in total).
  
• Access to the CDT cohort training programme and activities such as summer schools where travel and subsistence costs are covered by central CDT funds.

Successful applicants are expected to register as full-time students. However, eligible UK home fees applicants may request to be considered for part-time study. Check each individual project description for details on mode of attendance.

• Create a unique random applicant ID using your initials followed by the last 4 digits from your phone number.
• Use exactly the same ID on every form.

Anonymise your answers – use your applicant ID and not your name.

Your project application form is used by project supervisors to make shortlisting decisions and will be available to interviewers. It will be seen by academics at the host universities, and by the relevant project/industry partner.

Statement of Motivation

In completing your statement of motivation, you answer should consider:

• Why you want to study for a PhD?
• Why do you want to study for a PhD as part of the Sustainable Sound Futures CDT?
• How has your education given you the skills and knowledge to join the CDT?
• What particular skills and knowledge you want to develop during your research?

Don’t forget to include:

• Any experiences outside education that are relevant to your application.
• Link your research interests to the PhD project you’d most like to research, as well as discussing your broader interests.
• Outline how your research interests align with the CDT’s aim to create a more Sustainable Sound Future.

Note: Your response is limited to 4000 characters

There are 3 stages to our application process

1. Application to the CDT programme:
   You apply to the CDT programme regardless of which university/project you have chosen.
   
   • Submit a personal details form
   • Submit a project application form
     You can use this form to apply to a maximum of 3 CDT projects
     
2. Selection by the supervisory team and CDT management team:
   The CDT management team and project supervisors consider all submitted applications, perform interview panels, and make CDT funding offers.
   
3. Registration at the host university:
   Successful candidates are then invited to submit a formal application to register at the university hosting their chosen PhD project using the university’s normal postgraduate application portal.