Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship: Your Guide to Doctoral Funding

Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship: A Deep Dive

The Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship offers a significant opportunity for aspiring doctoral researchers to pursue advanced studies in the United Kingdom. This fully funded program, aimed at fostering future research leaders, provides comprehensive support for early-stage researchers. The scholarship is designed to equip participants with skills in anticipating change and utilizing future scenarios to drive innovation and resilience in their respective fields.

Understanding the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme

The FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme at Queen’s University Belfast is an initiative focused on future-oriented skills and innovation. It is a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Doctoral Programme, meaning it receives funding from the European Union and the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy. This program is specifically designed to train 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) in interdisciplinary research. The training goes beyond traditional academic study, emphasizing skills for foresight and strategic thinking. Participants will engage with a wide range of non-academic partners, gaining practical experience and diverse perspectives.

The program’s core objective is to cultivate researchers who can effectively navigate and shape the future through their work. This involves developing an understanding of how to use multiple future possibilities to inform present actions and foster creativity. The advanced training provided by the Thomas Moran Graduate School, combined with practical engagement with industry and policy partners, creates a unique learning environment.

Eligibility Criteria for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship

To be considered for this prestigious scholarship, candidates must meet several key requirements. Firstly, applicants must hold a degree that is equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. Strong academic performance is a fundamental aspect of the selection process.

Secondly, candidates should demonstrate exceptional potential as researchers, with a clear motivation for pursuing futures research. The program seeks individuals who are not only academically capable but also possess a forward-thinking mindset. A crucial requirement is that applicants must not hold a doctoral degree at the time of the application deadline, which is June 29, 2026.

Furthermore, there are residency stipulations. Applicants must not have lived or worked primarily in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months within the three years leading up to the application deadline. Finally, successful candidates must have the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom before their employment contract with MSCA and Queen’s University Belfast can commence.

Benefits and Funding Provided

The Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is a fully funded program, offering substantial benefits to successful candidates. Awardees will receive a 42-month full-time employment contract, which includes standard staff benefits. This employment status ensures that scholars are integrated into the university’s research community with appropriate support.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees, eliminating a significant financial barrier to doctoral study. In addition to tuition, scholars will receive a monthly living allowance. The base salary is set at £37,734 per year for those without pension contributions, or £31,185 with pension contributions. For eligible scholars with families, a monthly family allowance of £660 is also provided, totaling £6,600 annually.

Beyond financial support, the program provides access to excellent research facilities. This includes a personal computer, necessary scientific equipment, and access to the university’s library and shared research resources. The Northern Ireland Department for the Economy’s contribution ensures comprehensive coverage of tuition fees. Scholars are also allocated an individual budget to cover research and travel expenses, including attending conferences. Furthermore, support will be provided for visa applications, specifically for the Global Talent Visa.

Essential Application Documents

Prospective applicants must prepare a set of documents to support their application for the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme. The primary document is the completed application form, which should be filled out accurately and completely. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) of no more than two pages is required, detailing academic achievements, research experience, and any relevant skills.

A well-thought-out research proposal is a critical component of the application, outlining the intended area of doctoral study and research methodology. Applicants will also need to submit recommendation letters from academic or professional referees who can attest to their capabilities and potential. A personal statement is necessary, allowing candidates to express their motivations, career aspirations, and suitability for the program. Finally, academic transcripts from previous degrees must be provided to verify educational qualifications.

Application Process and Key Dates

The application process for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is structured to identify highly motivated and qualified candidates. Interested individuals should begin by visiting the official scholarship website, accessible via a provided link. Here, they will find the application form and detailed instructions.

After submitting the initial application with all required documents, the Recruitment Committee will review submissions. They aim to shortlist approximately six to eight candidates who demonstrate strong potential and motivation. The next stage involves an individual online interview, where shortlisted applicants will have the opportunity to discuss their research interests and suitability further.

Following the interviews, shortlisted candidates may be asked to prepare a more detailed research proposal. The Recruitment Committee will then convene to review all assessments and make final decisions on selecting the successful candidates. The deadline for applications is June 29, 2026. It is advisable for applicants to submit their materials well in advance of this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?

It’s a fully funded doctoral program at Queen’s University Belfast designed to train researchers in future-oriented skills, foresight, and strategic thinking.

Who is eligible for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?

You need a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours, strong research potential, and must not have lived or worked in the UK for more than 12 months in the last three years before the deadline.

What financial support does the scholarship offer?

It provides a 42-month employment contract, covers full tuition fees, offers a monthly living allowance, and includes a family allowance if applicable, plus a budget for research and travel.