If you are searching for a fully funded PhD in the UK, one of the most prestigious opportunities currently available is the EPSRC University Doctoral Landscape Award (UDLA) at Imperial College London’s Faculty of Medicine.
This programme offers not just funding, but access to world-class research, expert supervision, and structured career development.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know—from funding benefits to application strategies.
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💰 Funding Package: What You Will Receive
The EPSRC UDLA studentship is a fully funded PhD opportunity, covering both academic and living expenses.
✔️ Funding Benefits:
- £23,805 annual tax-free stipend (UKRI rate)
- Full tuition fees (Home students)
- 3.5 years total funding (3 years research + 6 months writing-up)
- Conference funding
- Research support and training grant
Additionally, all students join the Early Career Researcher Institute (ECRI), gaining access to:
- Transferable skills training
- Career development programmes
- Research networking opportunities
🔬 Research Areas and Available Projects
The programme is divided into two major research cohorts, each addressing cutting-edge challenges in medicine.
🧬 Synthetic Cells in Healthcare (SynCells)
Cohort Lead: Dr Ravinash Krishna Kumar
This research focuses on innovative healthcare technologies using synthetic biology.
Key Projects:
- Synthetic tissues for antimicrobial delivery
- Synthetic cell therapies for prostate cancer
- RNA biomarkers for therapeutic activation
- Vaccine delivery and immune training platforms
❤️ Deep Mapping of the Human Heart
Cohort Lead: Dr Andrew Scott
This cohort explores advanced cardiovascular research using imaging and computational techniques.
Key Projects:
- Microvascular simulation and characterization
- Cardiac ageing and disease detection
- 3D reconstruction of the human heart
- Advanced heart imaging technologies
🎓 Eligibility Requirements
To apply for this fully funded PhD in the UK, candidates must meet the following:
- A First-Class or Upper Second-Class (2:1) degree (or equivalent)
- Academic background relevant to the selected project
⚠️ Important:
- Some projects are limited to Home students only
- Requirements may vary by project—always check details carefully
🌍 Diversity and Inclusion
Imperial College London is committed to widening participation.
Applications are strongly encouraged from:
- Graduates of non-Russell Group universities
- Underrepresented groups (including BAME candidates)
This reflects a growing emphasis on equity in global research opportunities.
📝 How to Apply
Applying for a PhD studentship requires careful preparation.
✔️ Application Steps:
- Visit the official How to Apply page
- Select your preferred project
- Submit required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- Personal/research statement
- References
EPSRC UDLA Studentship Application Process
To make an application for an EPSRC University Doctoral Landscape Award funded PhD studentship, you will be required to submit an online application form.
This page provides important information about how to prepare and submit your application, as well as what will happen when you submit it.
Prepare and submit your application
We strongly recommend that you download the EPSRC UDLA studentship application form word template and use it to prepare your answers first, and then submit your application via the online application form. The template includes all questions that will appear in the online form.
You will need to provide details of two referees, at least one of whom should be familiar with your educational history, qualifications, and achievements. They will only be asked to provide references if you are offered an interview.
You are not required to upload a separate personal statement, CV, transcripts, or proof of nationality/residency status with your online application. However, if any information provided in the online application form is later found to be incorrect, it may result in an offer being withdrawn.
Please do not email a completed word template document to us. Applications will only be accepted via the online form.
Application deadline: 16 April 2026 23:59 BST.
📅 Deadline:
16 April 2026
🏆 Why Study at Imperial College London?
Imperial is one of the top-ranked universities globally, making it a strong choice for ambitious researchers.
📊 Rankings:
- 2nd in the world (QS 2025)
- 1st in Europe and the UK
- University of the Year (2024)
- Top for Graduate Employment
- Gold Teaching Excellence Award (2023)
A PhD from Imperial significantly enhances your global career prospects.
🚀 Final Thoughts
The EPSRC UDLA PhD studentships at Imperial College London represent a rare opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in a world-class institution.
However, competition is high.
✔️ To succeed:
- Choose a project aligned with your background
- Tailor your application to the research area
- Demonstrate strong academic and research potential
📌 Conclusion
If you are serious about pursuing a fully funded PhD in the UK in 2026, this opportunity should be at the top of your list.
With the right preparation and strategy, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for this prestigious programme.
