Application Process
Before you apply
We are looking for open-minded candidates who want to develop and use Franklin technologies in novel, interdisciplinary research spanning our different scientific themes. We welcome candidates from any scientific, maths, computing or engineering backgrounds.
To be considered for this programme, each applicant must have (or be on track to obtain):
A First Class or 2:1 degree in a relevant subject or
Any equivalent qualification to the above from a UK or international higher education institution in a relevant subject.
If English is not your first language, please note that you must be able to demonstrate a proficiency in English which is equivalent to a 7.0 score in an IELTS test, with a minimum score of 6.0 in each individual component. (We will request this from successful candidates after interview.)
We offer a fully funded studentship to nine Home UK students and one International student per year.
If you are uncertain as to whether you are a home or international student, please see the definitions below.
- UK Nationals (meeting residency requirements),
- Individuals with settled status,
- Individuals who have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements), or
- Individuals who have indefinite leave to remain or enter.
All successful candidates (Home or International) will receive full home tuition fee and stipend support.
Application deadlines
Applications for our 2026 – 2027 cohort will open in Autumn 2025, please check back then.
While applying
You must complete the application form using our online portal
To complete and submit a PhD application, you will require the following information:
- Your contact details
- The contact details of two academic referees
- Education and relevant employment experience
- Degree transcripts and degree certificate (if applicable)
- Research experience
- Answers to questions on project areas and motivation to apply for the PhD position
You are not required to submit a Research Proposal.
Applicants must apply to a specific project area. Please ensure that you include details of the area(s) that you are applying for on the application form.
You can apply for a maximum of 2 project areas.
I found the application process refreshingly unique, as it challenges me to think critically and apply myself to unfamiliar, interdisciplinary scientific problems.
After you apply
Application updates
Applicants who have been selected for interview will be notified directly by email. Interviews will take place in December for the first batch of applications. All further applications will be on hold during this time and will not be progressed further during this period.
Due to the large volume of applications received, we are unable to provide unsuccessful applicants with feedback. Decisions for unsuccessful applicants will be communicated via email once the recruitment process is complete, no later than the end of January.
Interview requirements
During the interview, candidates will be expected to present on one of the below ideas and presentations should relate to the scientific area they have applied to:
- a paper of their choice
- an original idea of a research problem they would like to pursue
- their own research
This would be followed by subsequent related questions and technical interview round. The interview will also include questions around motivation, research ethics, past research experience and interest in interdisciplinary projects.