UK2D Materials Scholarship 2027 is a PhD studentship programme delivered through the 2D Materials CDT; the 2D Materials Scholarship supports exceptional applicants for interdisciplinary research training. The focus keyword appears in this first sentence to help identify the programme and opportunity.
The programme is delivered via the Centre for Doctoral Training in 2D materials, with applications made to The University of Manchester (projects may be based in Manchester or Cambridge). The CDT will support applicants seeking fully funded CDT places or university scholarships and can advise on funding routes.
2D Materials Scholarship Benefits
- A small number (maximum 3 per year) of fully funded places (tuition fee and stipend) are available to EU and international applicants.
- The CDT may be able to assist you in securing one of the prestigious scholarships provided by The University of Manchester or the University of Cambridge.
- The University of Manchester scholarships include China Scholarship Council joint scholarship, President’s Doctoral Scholar Award and Dean’s Doctoral scholarships.
- Additionally, the programme will consider self-funded international applicants.
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2D Materials Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- The Programme welcomes exceptional applicants from across the physical sciences, including physics, chemistry, materials, and engineering.
- You should have, or expect to achieve/obtain, a UK First or High 2:1 undergraduate degree comprising at least 4 years of training (eg integrated Master’s or BSc+MSc) or an international equivalent.
- Evidence of some research experience is highly desirable (this includes extended undergraduate projects or previous research experience).
- Applicants must be enthusiastic and looking for a challenging, interdisciplinary research training environment.
- International applicants should meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall with minimums specified, or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores).
How to Apply for 2D Materials Scholarship
- All applicants to the CDT should apply to The University of Manchester via the University’s online application form.
- Personal (supporting) statement indicating preferred University (Manchester or Cambridge) and the two research missions you would like to join, in order of priority (UK: brief 300 words; International: 500-word statement).
- Certificates and transcripts: final or interim transcripts and certificates for all university-level qualifications.
- CV summarising academic record and relevant research experience.
- Referees: names and contact details of two referees (typically academic; one industry referee acceptable if relevant).
- UK applicants must complete the Socio-economic Background (SEB) Questionnaire.
- International applicants must provide English language proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) or complete a pre-sessional English course where applicable.
- When prompted in the application select Level of study: Postgraduate by Research; Academic programme: search ‘2D Materials’ and select the PhD programme; Specific project: No; Identified Supervisor: No.
- Upload required documentation and email 2D-materials@manchester.ac.uk after submission to help the CDT locate your documents.
- Indicate funding status when applying (seeking fully funded CDT place, applying for university scholarships, or self-funded).
Don’t miss this deadline
Applications close on Wednesday, 31 March 2027. We’ll email you 7, 3 and 1 days before.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the 2D Materials Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, application requirements, and contact points for further queries.
Is there a formal application deadline for the 2D Materials CDT?
There is no formal deadline for submitting an application; applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The CDT notes that places are typically filled by April–May of the year of entry and they expect all places to be filled by the end of March 2027, so applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Who should I apply to for the CDT programme?
All applicants to the CDT must apply to The University of Manchester, regardless of whether the research project will be based in Manchester or Cambridge. The online University application form is used for all postgraduate degrees; search for ‘2D Materials’ and select the PhD programme when applying.
What funding is available for international applicants?
A small number (maximum three per year) of fully funded places covering tuition fees and a stipend are available to EU and international applicants. These studentships are highly competitive and require exceptional academic performance and evidence of research potential. The CDT can also assist applicants to seek university scholarships.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
Applicants must provide a personal supporting statement (specifying preferred university and two research missions), certificates and transcripts (final or interim), a CV, contact details for two referees, and English language evidence if required. UK applicants also complete a Socio-economic Background questionnaire.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
Applicants without an acceptable English qualification must take a recognised test. Required scores include IELTS 6.5 overall with minimums (6 in writing and listening, 6 in other sub-tests), TOEFL iBT at least 90 with no subtest below 20, or PTE at least 70 with no subtest below 59. Pre-sessional English completion is also accepted.
How will my application be assessed?
Applications are assessed by the CDT academic leadership team. Shortlisting is based on written applications considering qualifications, aspirations and experience. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an in-person interview that assesses knowledge, aspirations and experience and provides an opportunity to learn about CDT training.
Can I indicate specific projects or supervisors on the application?
When prompted, applicants should list the two research missions to which they are applying or state the title of a specific advertised project. For ‘Specific project’ and ‘Identified Supervisor’ fields, applicants should select ‘No’ unless applying for a specific advertised project or identified supervisor.
What should I include in my supporting statement?
UK applicants should briefly describe their preferred university and list two research missions with up to 300 words explaining their choices. International applicants should provide a 500-word statement outlining motivation for postgraduate research, reasons for applying to the CDT, relevant experience, key research findings and developed techniques and skills.
How do I submit my application and supporting documents?
All applications must be made online via the University’s application portal. You will be prompted to upload supporting documents during the process. After submission, applicants are asked to email 2D-materials@manchester.ac.uk to help the CDT locate documents in the application system.
Who can I contact for further questions about the application?
For questions about the CDT application process, applicants should email the CDT Admissions team at 2D-materials@manchester.ac.uk. The page also provides links to the University’s postgraduate research application guidance and interview preparation resources for further support.
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