Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026: How to Apply
Queens University Belfast launches fully funded PhD FORESIGHTERS scholarship
Aspiring researchers from around the world now have an opportunity to pursue fully funded doctoral studies in the United Kingdom as Queens University Belfast has officially opened applications for its prestigious FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026.
The scholarship program, funded through the European Union’s Horizon Europe initiative and supported by Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy, will recruit 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) for an innovative doctoral training program focused on future-oriented research and interdisciplinary innovation.
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package that includes full tuition coverage, an annual stipend of up to £37,734, family allowances, research grants, travel support, and access to world-class academic facilities.
What Is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
The FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme stands for Future Oriented Skills and Innovation for Governance for Health, Technology, Energy, Cities and Creativity.
Hosted by Queen’s University Belfast, the program aims to develop the next generation of research leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.
The initiative combines advanced doctoral research with specialized training designed to help scholars anticipate societal, technological, environmental, and economic changes. Participants will work closely with academic experts and non-academic partners while contributing to impactful research projects.
The program is part of the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND framework, one of Europe’s leading research funding mechanisms.
Generous Financial Benefits for Successful Applicants
One of the biggest attractions of the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is its extensive financial support package.
Selected candidates will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Annual salary package of up to £37,734
- Family allowance worth approximately £6,600 annually for eligible candidates
- Personal computer and research equipment access
- Dedicated research funding
- Conference and travel grants
- Standard employee benefits through a 42-month full-time contract
- Guidance for Global Talent Visa applications
These benefits are designed to allow doctoral candidates to focus entirely on their research without financial constraints.
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Eligibility Requirements for FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026
Applicants seeking admission into the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme must satisfy several academic and residency requirements.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Hold a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree
- Demonstrate strong potential for future-oriented and interdisciplinary research
- Not possess a doctoral degree before the application deadline
- Have lived or worked in the United Kingdom for no more than 12 months within the previous 36 months before June 29, 2026
- Obtain permission to live and work in the UK before beginning the program
The scholarship is open to candidates from all countries, making it one of the most accessible fully funded doctoral opportunities currently available.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants are expected to prepare and submit several important documents during the application process.
Required documents include:
- Completed application form
- Two-page curriculum vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letters
The university notes that shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in online interviews before final selections are made.
Application Process and Deadline
Interested candidates can apply directly through the scholarship’s official application portal.
The selection process includes:
- Submission of application and supporting documents
- Initial screening and shortlisting
- Online interview assessment
- Submission of a detailed research proposal for shortlisted candidates
- Final review by the recruitment committee
The application deadline for the Queen’s University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026 is June 29, 2026.
Given the highly competitive nature of the program, prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documents well before the deadline.
Why This Scholarship Is Attracting Global Attention
The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship arrives at a time when demand for funded doctoral opportunities continues to rise worldwide.
Beyond financial support, the program offers candidates access to one of the United Kingdom’s leading research institutions, extensive professional development opportunities, and international research collaborations.
By combining academic excellence with practical skills development, the initiative aims to prepare scholars for leadership roles in academia, government, industry, and policy-making sectors.
For students seeking a fully funded pathway to advanced research in Europe, the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026 represents one of the most comprehensive opportunities currently available.
FAQ: Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026
What is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026?
The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral training program hosted by Queen’s University Belfast and supported by Horizon Europe and Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy.
Is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, provides a salary package worth up to £37,734 annually, family allowances, research funding, and travel grants.
Who can apply for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
Applicants from any country can apply, provided they meet the academic and residency eligibility criteria established by Queen’s University Belfast.
What degree qualification is required?
Candidates must possess a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree.
Does the scholarship require IELTS?
The scholarship announcement states that IELTS is not required. However, applicants should verify any language requirements specific to their chosen research project.
What is the annual stipend offered?
Successful candidates may receive up to £37,734 annually, depending on salary and pension arrangements.
Is there a family allowance?
Yes. Eligible researchers can receive an additional family allowance of approximately £6,600 annually.
How long is the doctoral programme?
The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship provides a 42-month full-time employment contract covering the doctoral research period.
What research areas are covered?
Research themes include health, technology, energy, governance, creativity, innovation, cities, and future-focused interdisciplinary studies.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants must submit an application form, CV, research proposal, personal statement, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts.
What is the deadline for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026?
Applications close on June 29, 2026.
Why is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship considered prestigious?
The program is funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND initiative, one of Europe’s most respected research funding frameworks, and offers extensive financial and professional support to doctoral researchers.