Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship in the UK
The Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral program for students looking to pursue advanced research in the United Kingdom. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers to engage in interdisciplinary studies and develop skills in anticipating change and using future scenarios to guide present actions. The program is designed to foster future research leaders by providing comprehensive training and support.
About the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme
The FORESIGHTERS (Future Oriented Skills and Innovation for Governance for Health, Technology, Energy, Cities and Creativity) Doctoral Training Programme is hosted at Queen’s University Belfast. It is a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Doctoral Programme, funded by the European Union and the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy. The program aims to recruit 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) who will benefit from an innovative doctoral training experience.
This program goes beyond traditional academic training. It focuses on equipping researchers with skills to understand and navigate complex future challenges. By exploring multiple possible futures, participants will learn to stimulate creativity, build resilience, and focus on impactful contemporary actions. The training is delivered through the Thomas Moran Graduate School and involves collaboration with a wide range of non-academic partners.
Eligibility Requirements for the Scholarship
To be considered for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship, candidates must meet specific criteria. Applicants should possess a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. They must also demonstrate strong motivation and exceptional potential as researchers, particularly in futures research.
A key requirement is that applicants must not hold a doctoral degree by the application deadline, which is June 29, 2026. Additionally, candidates must not have lived or worked primarily in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months within the three years leading up to the deadline. Finally, successful applicants will need to have the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom before their employment contract with MSCA and Queen’s University Belfast begins.
Benefits of the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
Successful candidates will receive a 42-month full-time employment contract with comprehensive benefits. This includes full coverage of tuition fees, a generous annual stipend, and additional allowances. The program provides a monthly living allowance equivalent to €3655, and eligible ESRs can also receive a monthly family allowance of €660.
The scholarship also offers a competitive salary package. The basic salary without pension contribution is £37,734 per year, while with pension contribution, it is £31,185. The family allowance, if applicable, adds an extra £6,600 annually. Beyond financial support, scholars will have access to a high-quality work environment, including a personal computer, advanced scientific equipment, and extensive library and research facilities.
Furthermore, the FORESIGHTERS program provides an individual budget for research and travel expenses, which can be used for conference attendance and other academic pursuits. The Northern Ireland Department for the Economy also offers separate, full coverage for tuition fees. Appointed candidates will also receive support and guidance for their Global Talent Visa applications.
Required Documents for Application
Prospective applicants must prepare a set of documents for their application. These include a completed application form, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) that is no more than two pages long, and a detailed research proposal. Applicants will also need to submit recommendation letters, a personal statement outlining their motivations and suitability for the program, and their academic transcripts.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
The application process for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is straightforward. Interested and qualified candidates should first visit the official scholarship website by clicking the provided link. Here, they will need to complete the online application form, ensuring all necessary details and supporting documents are attached.
The Recruitment Committee will review applications and aim to shortlist between six and eight highly qualified and motivated candidates for an interview. These interviews will be conducted online. Following the initial interview stage, shortlisted applicants will be required to develop a more detailed research proposal. The Recruitment Committee will then convene to review the proposals and interview outcomes to select the successful candidates. The deadline for applications is June 29, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
It’s a fully funded doctoral program at Queen’s University Belfast that trains researchers in future-oriented skills and interdisciplinary studies.
Who is eligible for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
You need a degree similar to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours, must not have a PhD already, and meet specific residency rules for the UK.
What are the financial benefits of the scholarship?
Successful candidates receive a 42-month employment contract, tuition fee coverage, a living allowance, and potentially a family allowance.
What is the application deadline for the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship?
The deadline to apply for the scholarship is June 29, 2026.
