The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship at Queens University Belfast in UK 2026 is now open for applications, offering outstanding international researchers the opportunity to pursue a fully funded doctoral degree at Queen’s University Belfast in the United Kingdom. Successful candidates will receive full tuition coverage, an annual salary package of up to £37,734, research and travel funding, and access to world-class doctoral training.
If you are looking for a prestigious funded PhD opportunity in the UK, the Queen’s University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme could be your gateway to becoming a future research leader.
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FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host | Queen’s University Belfast, United Kingdom |
| Eligible Countries | International Students |
| Reward | Full Tuition Fees, Annual Salary up to £37,734, Research & Travel Grants, Family Allowance |
| Deadline | June 29, 2026 |
| Application Link | CLICK HERE TO APPLY |
About the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
Queen’s University Belfast has launched applications for 20 Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) positions under the prestigious FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Training Programme. FORESIGHTERS, which stands for Future ORiEnted Skills and Innovation for Governance for Health, Technology, EneRgy, CitieS and Creativity, is a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND doctoral programme hosted by Queen’s University Belfast.
The programme is jointly funded by the European Union and the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy. It is designed to equip future research leaders with advanced skills in futures thinking, innovation, governance, and interdisciplinary research. Participants will benefit from cutting-edge doctoral training while collaborating with a diverse range of non-academic partners to address complex global challenges.
In addition to the advanced research training offered through the Thomas J. Moran Graduate School, scholars will gain expertise in anticipating change, exploring alternative futures, and applying future-oriented approaches to contemporary societal issues.
FORESIGHTERS Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or possess a Master’s degree.
- Demonstrate exceptional research potential and strong motivation for futures-oriented research.
- Not hold a doctoral degree by the application deadline.
- Not have lived, worked, or studied in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months during the 36 months preceding June 29, 2026.
- Be able to obtain permission to live and work in the United Kingdom before commencing the programme.
Benefits of the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package that includes:
1. Full Tuition Coverage
All tuition fees will be fully funded throughout the duration of the doctoral programme.
2. Competitive Annual Salary
Selected researchers will receive:
- Basic Salary (without pension contribution): £37,734
- Basic Salary (with pension contribution): £31,185
- Family Allowance (where applicable): £6,600
3. Monthly Living Allowance
Researchers will receive a living allowance equivalent to €3,655 per month.
4. Family Support
Eligible candidates can receive an additional monthly family allowance of €660.
5. Research and Travel Funding
The programme provides dedicated funding for:
- Research activities
- Academic conferences
- Professional development
- International travel related to research
6. World-Class Research Environment
Scholars will have access to:
- Personal computing facilities
- Scientific equipment
- Research laboratories
- Extensive library resources
- Shared research infrastructure
7. Visa Support
Successful candidates will receive support and endorsement guidance for applying for the UK Global Talent Visa.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before starting their application:
- Completed Application Form
- Two-Page Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Proposal
- Recommendation Letters
- Personal Statement
- Academic Transcripts
How to Apply for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official scholarship application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Selection Process
- The Recruitment Committee will shortlist approximately 6–8 highly qualified applicants per position.
- Shortlisted candidates will participate in an online interview.
- Candidates progressing beyond the interview stage will be invited to submit a more detailed research proposal.
- Final selections will be ratified by the Recruitment Committee within two weeks after interviews.
Application Deadline: June 29, 2026
Application Link: CLICK HERE TO APPLY
How to Win the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship (150 Words)
Winning the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship requires more than meeting the minimum eligibility criteria. Start by carefully studying the research themes offered under the programme and align your academic interests with them. Develop a compelling research proposal that addresses real-world challenges in areas such as health, technology, energy, cities, creativity, or governance.
Your personal statement should clearly explain your academic journey, research ambitions, leadership potential, and how the FORESIGHTERS programme aligns with your long-term career goals. Demonstrate evidence of critical thinking, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Strong recommendation letters can significantly strengthen your application, so choose referees who know your academic and research capabilities well. Ensure your CV highlights research experience, publications, conferences, leadership activities, and relevant achievements.
Finally, prepare thoroughly for the interview stage by understanding your proposed research topic, current developments in your field, and the broader goals of the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme.
Conclusion
The FORESIGHTERS Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue a fully funded PhD at Queen’s University Belfast. With full tuition support, an annual salary package of up to £37,734, research funding, and international exposure, the programme provides a strong foundation for future academic and professional success. Interested candidates should begin preparing their applications early and submit all required documents before the June 29, 2026 deadline.
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