Application Deadline: 26 January 2026
Announcement: Fully Funded Dual-Award PhD Programme for 2026 – Postgraduate Researchers at The University of Manchester and Tsinghua University
The University of Manchester has joined forces with Tsinghua University to launch an exceptional dual-award PhD programme. This initiative allows postgraduate candidates to immerse themselves in research and academic collaboration across two globally acclaimed universities, enhancing their scholarly journey with international exposure and high-impact interdisciplinary projects.
Why Enroll in this Dual-Award PhD Programme?
- Benefit from expert supervision jointly provided by distinguished academics from both universities.
- Engage in cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary research that addresses critical global challenges.
- Acquire invaluable international research experience, broadening your academic and cultural horizons.
- Position yourself advantageously for future opportunities in academia and industry worldwide.
- Access fully funded scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Funding and Scholarship Details
For the September 2026 intake, up to four fully funded studentships are available. These comprehensive funding packages cover:
- Full tuition fees at both The University of Manchester and Tsinghua University.
- Living stipends during your time in Manchester and Beijing.
- Travel expenses for journeys between the UK and China.
This opportunity offers a remarkable chance to expand your academic and cultural experiences while contributing to impactful research in two vibrant academic settings.
About the Dual-Award PhD Programme
This collaborative doctoral programme represents the seventh cohort of students admitted to this innovative initiative uniting The University of Manchester and China’s prestigious Tsinghua University. Over a transformative four-year period, successful candidates will conduct their research between Manchester and Beijing, taking full advantage of the exceptional research infrastructure and academic mentorship available at both institutions.
Advantages of Pursuing the Dual Degree
- Experience life in two of the world’s most iconic cities, immersing yourself in diverse cultures and expanding your global outlook.
- Develop a comprehensive international perspective and cross-cultural fluency that can open doors to a wealth of career opportunities worldwide.
- Enhance intercultural competencies that are highly valued by employers in UK academia and industry sectors.
Programme Focus and Research Themes
This ground-breaking dual-award PhD scheme is designed to produce world-class research outputs while equipping students with essential skills and training. A key research emphasis is on transitioning from fossil-based resources to sustainable bio-based systems, reflecting urgent global sustainability priorities.
Comprehensive Funding Package
Selected candidates will receive scholarships that fully cover tuition fees at both universities. Additional financial support includes:
- An annual stipend at the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) minimum level, approximately £20,780 for the 2025/26 academic year, during the Manchester residency.
- A comparable stipend provided through the China Link Scholarship (CLS) while studying at Tsinghua University, ensuring a similar standard of living.
- An annual Research Training Support Grant (up to £2,500) to help cover research-related expenses and consumables during the Manchester phase.
- Guaranteed university-owned accommodation at Tsinghua for successful CLS recipients.
- Flight allowances and visa cost coverage for travel to Beijing.
Students must complete all administrative requirements to ensure a smooth transition between the partner universities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should apply only for projects that have been approved by the Joint Programme Board. Entry requirements differ depending on application route:
- Applicants applying via The University of Manchester: Open to international candidates excluding Chinese nationals from Mainland China, Taiwan, Macau, and Hong Kong.
- Applicants applying via Tsinghua University: Reserved for Chinese nationals, including those from Mainland China, Taiwan, Macau, and Hong Kong.
Academic Qualifications Required
- For entry through Manchester, candidates must hold (or expect to achieve) a minimum of an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a subject directly related to the PhD research area, or
- Possess any upper second-class honours degree plus a Master’s degree with at least merit in a relevant discipline (international equivalents will be assessed by Manchester’s admissions team).
- For entrance via Tsinghua, applicants should have a Master’s level qualification with merit or distinction, or an MPhys, MChem, MEng degree with a 2:1 or higher standard (or an equivalent qualification confirmed by Manchester’s admissions team).
English Language Proficiency
All candidates must demonstrate adequate English language ability. Applicants lacking an approved English language qualification will need to take a recognized test and achieve at least an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6 in writing and listening, and at least 5.5 in other sub-tests or an equivalent certification. This requirement aligns with UK Home Office standards for student visa issuance.
Additional Requirements
- Certain research projects may necessitate obtaining an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
- Applicants must be willing and able to undertake research at both partner institutions during their candidature.
- Applicants must satisfy the criteria outlined in the Faculty of Science and Engineering Postgraduate Researcher person specification.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet all eligibility conditions can submit applications for approved projects through The University of Manchester starting in the week of 15 December 2025. The application window will close on 26 January 2026.
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