Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 is an exciting opportunity for students aiming to advance their research in sustainable materials and innovative lightweight structures. Offered by Imperial’s Department of Design Engineering, this fully funded position supports talented researchers for the 2026/2027 academic year while promoting cutting-edge work in modern design and engineering solutions.
Eligible applicants should hold a strong undergraduate or master’s degree in engineering, materials science, or a closely related field. Candidates must also demonstrate a clear interest in sustainability, manufacturing innovation, and advanced design methods, along with meeting all doctoral admission requirements set by the university.
Benefits of Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026
- Fully funded PhD covering tuition.
- Living stipend provided.
- Research on sustainability-focused projects.
- Access to Imperial College’s top design and manufacturing facilities.
- Collaboration with leading researchers and industry exposure.
Eligibility Criteria for the Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026
- Eligible Countries: Applicants from any country may apply.
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for a PhD program within the Department of Design Engineering, focusing on sustainable design, manufacturing, materials engineering, or related themes.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Hold a strong undergraduate or master’s degree in engineering, materials science, design engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrate interest or experience in manufacturing processes, sustainable materials, structural design, or thermoforming technologies.
• Possess excellent analytical, experimental, or modelling skills relevant to the project’s aims.
• Meet Imperial College London’s PhD admission requirements.
• Be capable of conducting innovative research in line with the project’s sustainability goals.
How to Apply for the Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026?
- Review the scholarship details and confirm you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and any required supporting documents.
- Contact a potential supervisor in the Department of Design Engineering to discuss your research interests.
- Complete the online PhD application form through Imperial College’s application portal.
- Clearly mention that you wish to be considered for the Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 in your application.
- Upload all required documents and double-check your information before submitting.
- Submit your application ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Wait for the department to review your application and respond if they request additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 (DEPS) offers three fully funded PhD scholarships (1 home, 2 overseas) including full tuition and a £21,237/year stipend for 3.5 years. Applicants need a First Class or Distinction — or strong 2:1 with experience — and must apply to a listed Design Engineering PhD project before the 12 Jan 2026 deadline.
What is the Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026?
Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 (DEPS) is a fully funded doctoral scholarship offered by the Department of Design Engineering. It supports new PhD students, covering full tuition fees (home or overseas) plus a stipend for living costs during the research.
How many awards are given for 2026/27?
For 2026/27 intake, there are three DEPS scholarships available: one award for full home-fee coverage and two awards for full overseas-fee coverage. All three include a stipend.
What is the stipend amount and duration?
Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 provides a stipend of £21,237 per annum for 3.5 years to support living costs while you complete the PhD.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a First Class Honors degree or a Distinction at Master’s level (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering, design, or scientific discipline. In exceptional cases, a 2:1 (Merit) at Master’s level with strong research or industry experience may also qualify.
Can continuing students apply?
No — the scholarship is only open to applicants starting a new PhD program in the Department of Design Engineering. Current/continuing PhD students are not eligible.
What fields of study does the scholarship cover?
Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026 is specifically for PhD study in the Department of Design Engineering. To be considered, you must apply for one of the department’s listed PhD research projects.
How do I apply for the Design Engineering PhD Fellowship 2026?
You must submit a PhD application through the college’s application portal, selecting one of the eligible department project titles. Listing the project in your application ensures you are automatically considered for the scholarship.
When is the application deadline for 2026/27?
The application deadline for the 2026/27 DEPS scholarships is 09 January 2026.
When would the PhD start if awarded the fellowship?
Successful candidates must begin their PhD between 1 August 2026 and 31 July 2027.
Are overseas students eligible for DEPS?
Yes — the DEPS scheme covers both home and overseas fee status. Two of the three annual awards are reserved for overseas students receiving full funding.
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