The University of Liverpool is pleased to announce the availability of the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship for the 2025/26 academic year. This distinguished scholarship, established in 2004 through a generous endowment from The Duncan Norman Charitable Trust in memory of the late Duncan Norman, offers substantial financial and academic support to exceptional postgraduate research students across all disciplines. The application deadline is set for Friday, April 4, 2025.
Overview of the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
The Duncan Norman Research Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards offered by the University of Liverpool. It is designed to attract and support outstanding PhD candidates by providing comprehensive funding and resources, thereby enabling scholars to focus entirely on their research endeavors.
Key Benefits of the Scholarship
Recipients of the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship will enjoy a range of benefits aimed at supporting their academic journey:
- Annual Maintenance Stipend: Scholars will receive a competitive annual stipend of £22,000 to cover living expenses. If a recipient has secured partial funding from another source, this scholarship will top up the amount to reach the £22,000 threshold.
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage: The scholarship covers the full payment of tuition fees, applicable to Home, EU, or Overseas students, ensuring that scholars can pursue their studies without financial barriers.
- Accommodation Support: Scholars are provided with free university accommodation valued at up to £4,635 per annum. Alternatively, those who prefer to live off-campus can receive an equivalent allowance to support their housing costs.
- Technology Allowance: To aid in research activities, scholars are entitled to a laptop or desktop computer worth up to £1,000.
- Conference Funding: To encourage academic dissemination and networking, the scholarship offers up to £500 for conference expenses during the second and third years of study.
Eligibility Criteria
The Duncan Norman Research Scholarship is open to all prospective full-time postgraduate research students, regardless of nationality, tuition fee status, or subject area. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications: Candidates should hold, or expect to obtain, a first-class honors degree (or its equivalent) prior to commencing their PhD studies.
- PhD Offer: Applicants must have a formal offer of study for a PhD program at the University of Liverpool.
- Alternative Funding Applications: It is anticipated that candidates will have applied for funding from other sources where possible. If such funding is secured, the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship will provide additional top-up funding to ensure comprehensive support.
- Engagement with the Trust: Scholarship holders are required to register for a PhD at the University of Liverpool and participate in events organized by The Duncan Norman Charitable Trust in Liverpool.
Ineligibility Criteria
Certain categories of applicants are not eligible for this scholarship:
- MRes Students: Candidates enrolled in Master of Research programs are not eligible.
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine: Students based at this institution are excluded from applying.
- Current University of Liverpool MPhil/PhD Students: Individuals already registered in MPhil or PhD programs at the University are not eligible.
- Off-Site Students: Candidates who will not be based on the main campus during their studies are ineligible.
- XJTLU Students: Students based at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University are not eligible for this scholarship.
Prospective applicants should follow these steps to apply for the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship:
- Secure a PhD Offer: Ensure you have a formal offer of study for a PhD program at the University of Liverpool.
- Complete the Application Form: Download and fill out the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship application form, available on the University’s official website.
- Submit the Application: Send the completed application form, along with any required supporting documents, via email to scholarships@liverpool.ac.uk by the deadline of April 4, 2025.
Selection Process
Applications will be evaluated by the University’s Scholarship Awarding Committee. The selection process is highly competitive and will consider the following factors:
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrated through previous academic achievements and qualifications.
- Research Potential: Assessed based on the proposed research project, its significance, and the candidate’s ability to contribute to their field of study.
- Funding Efforts: Consideration of the applicant’s attempts to secure alternative funding sources.
- Alignment with the University’s Research Priorities: How well the proposed research aligns with the strategic research objectives of the University of Liverpool.
Why Choose the University of Liverpool for Your PhD?
The University of Liverpool is renowned for its research excellence and offers a vibrant academic community. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, the University provides:
- World-Class Research Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and resources to support cutting-edge research.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Opportunities to work across disciplines with leading experts, fostering innovation and comprehensive research approaches.
- Global Network: A diverse and inclusive environment with connections to institutions and industries worldwide, enhancing the impact and reach of your research.
- Professional Development: Comprehensive support services, including training workshops, career advice, and networking events, to prepare scholars for successful research careers.
Conclusion
The Duncan Norman Research Scholarship represents a remarkable opportunity for aspiring PhD students to undertake their research at a leading UK institution with substantial financial and academic support. By alleviating financial concerns, the scholarship allows scholars to fully immerse themselves in their research and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements to ensure a successful application. For more detailed information and to access the application form, please visit the University of Liverpool’s official scholarship page.
Embark on your research journey with the University of Liverpool and make a significant impact in your field with the support of the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship.
