Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship: A Deep Dive for Aspiring Doctoral Researchers
For students aiming to pursue doctoral studies in the United Kingdom, the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship presents a significant opportunity. This fully funded program is designed to support early-stage researchers (ESRs) in developing future-oriented skills and innovative approaches to complex global challenges. The scholarship covers doctoral studies at Queens University Belfast, a leading institution in the UK, and offers a comprehensive package to ensure researchers can focus on their academic pursuits.
The FORESIGHTERS program, an acronym for Future Oriented Skills and Innovation for Governance for Health, Technology, Energy, Cities and Creativity, is a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Doctoral Programme. It is jointly funded by the European Union and the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy. This initiative aims to train the next generation of research leaders by providing them with advanced training in foresight methodologies and interdisciplinary research. Participants will engage with a wide array of non-academic partners, fostering practical application of their research.
Understanding the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme
The FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme at Queens University Belfast is structured to provide a robust research training experience. It focuses on equipping doctoral candidates with skills to anticipate change and utilize multiple future scenarios to foster creativity, resilience, and focused action in the present. Beyond traditional academic training, the program emphasizes foresight skills, which are increasingly valuable in addressing complex, long-term issues across various sectors. The program is looking to recruit 20 Early-Stage Researchers for the 2026/27 academic year.
The curriculum is designed to be interdisciplinary, encouraging scholars to explore connections between health, technology, energy, urban development, and creativity. This approach allows for a more holistic understanding of global challenges and the development of innovative solutions. The program’s connection with non-academic partners ensures that research is not only academically rigorous but also relevant and impactful in real-world contexts.
Eligibility Criteria for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
To be considered for this prestigious scholarship, candidates must meet specific academic and residency requirements. Applicants should possess a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. A strong motivation for research and exceptional potential in futures research are also key considerations.
Crucially, candidates must not hold a doctoral degree by the application deadline, which is June 29, 2026. Furthermore, there is a mobility requirement: applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activities, such as work or studies, in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months within the 36 months immediately preceding 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 QUB can begin.
Benefits and Financial Support Offered
The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship offers a highly attractive package for successful candidates, essentially providing a full scholarship with substantial financial support. Successful applicants will be offered a 42-month full-time employment contract, which includes standard staff benefits. This employment contract ensures that scholars receive a regular income and are treated as employees of the university.
The scholarship covers full tuition fees, removing a significant financial barrier to doctoral study. In addition to tuition, scholars receive a monthly living allowance. The basic salary is set at £37,734 per year without pension contributions, or £31,185 with pension contributions. Eligible scholars can also receive a monthly Family Allowance of £660. The program also provides access to essential resources, including a personal computer, scientific equipment, and extensive library and research facilities. A dedicated individual budget is allocated for research and travel expenses, which can be used for conference attendance and other research-related activities. The Northern Ireland Department for the Economy’s contribution further solidifies the comprehensive coverage of academic costs.
Required Application Documents
Prospective applicants need to prepare a set of documents to support their application for the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme. The application form itself is the primary document, which must be completed accurately and thoroughly. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) of no more than two pages is required, detailing academic and professional experience.
A well-defined Research Proposal is essential, outlining the intended area of study and research methodology. Two Recommendation Letters from academic or professional referees are also necessary to vouch for the applicant’s capabilities. A Personal Statement should be included, allowing candidates to express their motivations, aspirations, and suitability for the program. Finally, Academic Transcripts from previous degrees are needed to verify educational qualifications.
Application Process for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
The application process for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is designed to identify highly motivated and capable researchers. Interested candidates should begin by visiting the official scholarship website, typically accessed via a green “Apply” button. On the website, applicants must complete the online application form, ensuring all required details and documents are attached.
The Recruitment Committee will review all applications and aim to shortlist approximately six to eight qualified and motivated candidates for an interview. The initial assessment stage will involve an individual online interview. Following this, shortlisted applicants will be required to prepare a more detailed Research Proposal. The final selection will be made by the entire Recruitment Committee, who will meet to consider and ratify the decisions within two weeks of the interviews. The deadline for applications is June 29, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
It’s a fully funded doctoral program at Queens University Belfast designed to train early-stage researchers in foresight methodologies to address global challenges.
Who is eligible for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
Applicants need a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours, must not hold a doctorate, and meet specific residency/mobility requirements for the UK.
What financial support does the scholarship provide?
It covers full tuition fees, offers a monthly living allowance, and includes a 42-month employment contract with staff benefits, plus potential family allowance and research budgets.
What documents are needed for the application?
You’ll need an application form, a CV, a research proposal, two recommendation letters, a personal statement, and academic transcripts.
