Bournemouth University in the United Kingdom has opened applications for its fully funded PhD Studentship in Molecular Ecology and Conservation. This highly specialized doctoral research project focuses on applying cutting-edge genetic and molecular tools to evaluate the success of river reconnection programs for threatened migratory (diadromous) fish species.
Scholarship Overview
| Host Country | UK |
| Institution | Bournemouth University |
| Study Location | Study in UK |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries |
| Requirements | First-Class Honours undergraduate degree |
| Scholarship Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Studentships |
| Reward | Full Tuition Fee Waiver | Monthly Living Stipend | 100% Covered Training & Research Costs |
| Application Closing Date | 30th June, 2026 |
Using the lower River Severn basin as its focal study area, the research aims to assess how ecological restoration impacts key indicator populations, including European shads (Alosa spp.), sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), and the critically endangered European eel (Anguilla anguilla).
This guide details the eligibility prerequisites, financial coverage, and the required application protocol ahead of the June deadline.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Bournemouth University Studentship offers a complete financial package guaranteed for a 36-month (3 years) active funding window, with an expectation of total thesis submission within 48 months:
- Tuition Fee Waiver
- Maintenance Stipend
- Research Infrastructure Costs
- Advanced Training Budget
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Eligibility and Selection Requirements
To clear the institutional admissions filter, candidates must demonstrate high-tier academic merit and a specific technical skill set:
- Must possess a First-Class Honours undergraduate degree (or equivalent GPA) or a Master’s degree with Distinction in molecular ecology, conservation biology, fisheries science, genetics, or a highly related discipline.
- If English is not your native language, you must provide certified evidence of an Academic IELTS score of 6.5 minimum (with no individual component lower than 6.0) at the point of application.
- Documented hands-on experience with DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) protocols, and standard downstream DNA sequence data analysis. Prior exposure to constructing DNA libraries, especially for environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring is highly desirable but not mandatory.
- Strong numerical skills, including practical proficiency in using statistical computing environments like R or Python for data analysis.
Required Documents
Candidates must compile and upload the following digital materials via the university application system:
- A fully completed online postgraduate research application form.
- A comprehensive Research Project Proposal (approximately 1,500 words) outlining your precise understanding of the River Severn reconnection project, your intended technical approach, and the specific expertise you bring to the research group.
- Certified digital copies of your university transcripts and degree graduation certificates.
- Verifiable proof of English language capabilities (if applicable).
- Two official academic reference letters supporting your suitability for doctoral-level research.
How to Apply for the Bournemouth University Scholarship 2026
Applications are evaluated centrally by the Bournemouth University Doctoral College. Follow this structured process to submit your file:
- Click on the green application link button below to log directly into the official Bournemouth University postgraduate funding page.
- Locate the specific listing titled: “PhD Studentship – Application of genetic and molecular tools for assessing outcomes of river reconnection programmes for diadromous species”.
- Utilize the institutional proposal guidance templates to structure your 1,500-word project overview, ensuring you clearly address your molecular biology background and quantitative R/Python capacities.
- Click the designated “APPLY NOW” button on the faculty webpage to create your applicant profile.
- Complete the personal and academic history fields, attach your 1,500-word proposal alongside your supporting transcripts, and make submission before the official closing date on June 30, 2026.
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