NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded PhD at LSHTM
Imagine a chance to tackle one of the world’s pressing health challenges with full funding from a top institution. The NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026 at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine offers that exact opportunity. This fully funded PhD program focuses on syphilis control, a key issue in global health as cases rise in the UK and beyond. It equips researchers to cut down syphilis and other STIs through fresh ideas.
This guide covers everything you need. You will find a quick summary, eligibility details, benefits, skills gained, and a clear step-by-step application process. Read on to learn how to apply with confidence by the deadline.
Key Takeaways
- This fully funded 3-year PhD at LSHTM focuses on syphilis control and is open to applicants from all countries with no IELTS needed.
- Eligibility requires a relevant Master’s degree, basic stats skills in STATA or R, and strong organizational and communication abilities.
- Benefits include full tuition at home rate, a £23,805 annual tax-free stipend, and coverage for travel, conferences, and research.
- Apply by contacting supervisor Michael Marks first, then submit documents like CV, research proposal, and transcripts via the LSHTM portal by May 11, 2026.
NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026 Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Category: PhD Scholarships, Postgraduate
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full tuition fees, £23,805 tax-free stipend per year at UKRI rate, travel and research costs
- Deadline: May 11, 2026 (23:59 BST)
- Start Date: September 2026
- No IELTS Required
About the NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship at LSHTM
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) offers a 3-year full-time PhD studentship. It starts in September 2026 and receives funding from an NIHR project on syphilis control in the UK. Students from all countries can apply.
Chosen candidates join a supportive team. The group studies new ways to lower illness from syphilis and other STIs. For full details, check the official LSHTM scholarship page. You must also meet LSHTM minimum entry requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Meet LSHTM minimum entry requirements | See LSHTM entry page for full list | Ensures you have the basic academic background to succeed |
| Masters degree or equivalent | In health economics, public health with economics focus, or undergrad economics plus health Masters | Provides foundation for economic analysis in syphilis research |
| Basic statistical skills | Experience with STATA or R software | Allows you to handle data analysis key to the project |
| Good organizational skills | Effective time management | Helps you meet deadlines in a demanding PhD |
| Independent and collaborative work | Ability to work alone and in teams | Fits the team-based research environment |
| Critical thinking | Analyze complex problems and propose solutions | Drives innovative solutions for syphilis control |
| Excellent interpersonal skills | Strong oral and written communication | Supports sharing findings with diverse groups |
| Community engagement | Work with syphilis-affected communities | Builds real-world impact through partnerships |
Benefits of the Scholarship
| Benefit | Coverage/Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full coverage at LSHTM Home rate | Removes all education costs |
| Stipend | £23,805 tax-free per year at UKRI rate | Supports living expenses fully |
| Travel/Conference/Research Costs | Covered by NIHR Research Professorship to Michael Marks | Funds fieldwork and events |
| Networking Opportunities | Interactions with LSHTM staff and students | Builds career connections |
Skills and Methods Developed
- Gain experience with costing and health economic analysis to evaluate syphilis interventions.
- Build skills in mathematical modelling to predict disease trends.
- Learn to collaborate with qualitative researchers, epidemiologists, and modellers for well-rounded studies.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
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Contact primary supervisor Michael Marks at [email protected] for an informal chat. Do this early, as it is strongly encouraged.
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Gather your documents. Include academic transcripts, a two-page CV, a two-page research proposal (pick a syphilis question, add background with five key references, outline methods), references, and a personal statement on your fit for the PhD. See the before you apply page for standards.
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Go to the LSHTM application portal. Submit everything by 23:59 BST on May 11, 2026.
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In the Funding section, write “NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship” to apply for this award. Check the scholarship page for more.
The NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026 at LSHTM gives you a chance to fight rising syphilis cases with full funding and expert support. It covers tuition, a tax-free stipend, and research costs while building key skills in health economics and modeling. Contact supervisor Michael Marks today and apply by May 11, 2026, to join this vital global health effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026?
The deadline is May 11, 2026, at 23:59 BST.
Is IELTS required for this scholarship?
No, IELTS is not required.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
It covers full tuition fees, a £23,805 tax-free stipend per year, and travel, conference, and research costs.
How do I start the application process?
First, contact primary supervisor Michael Marks at [email protected] for an informal chat, then gather documents and apply via the LSHTM portal.