Understanding the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
The Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship offers a significant opportunity for aspiring doctoral candidates to pursue advanced research in the United Kingdom. This fully funded program aims to cultivate future research leaders by providing comprehensive support and training in interdisciplinary research. The scholarship is designed for individuals with a strong academic background and a passion for futures research, focusing on skills for anticipating change and using future scenarios to inform present actions.
The FORESIGHTERS program is a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Doctoral Programme hosted at Queen’s University Belfast. It receives funding from the European Union and the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy. This initiative provides an exceptional environment for doctoral training, encouraging high-impact research and collaboration with various non-academic partners. Beyond traditional academic training, the program emphasizes developing skills in foresight and innovation for governance across health, technology, energy, cities, and creativity.
FORESIGHTERS Scholarship Program Details
The FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme at Queen’s University Belfast is actively recruiting for 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs). This program is specifically designed to equip researchers with advanced skills in foresight and innovation. The core of the program involves interdisciplinary research, encouraging fellows to explore complex challenges from multiple perspectives.
The training provided goes beyond subject-specific knowledge. It focuses on developing capabilities in anticipating future trends, understanding complex systems, and applying foresight methodologies to real-world problems. This approach aims to foster resilience and creativity in researchers, preparing them to address contemporary issues with a forward-looking perspective. The program’s structure encourages collaboration with industry, government, and civil society partners, offering a rich and practical research experience.
Eligibility Requirements for the Scholarship
To be considered for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship, candidates must meet specific academic and residency criteria. Applicants should possess a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. A strong motivation and exceptional potential for futures research are also key requirements.
Crucially, candidates must not hold a doctoral degree by the application deadline, which is June 29, 2026. Furthermore, there is a residency clause: applicants should not have lived or worked primarily in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months within the 36 months preceding the application deadline. Finally, successful candidates must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom before commencing their employment contract with the university and the MSCA program.
Benefits of the FORESIGHTERS Scholarship
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package designed to support their doctoral studies and research endeavors. This includes a 42-month full-time employment contract with standard staff benefits. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic progress.
A substantial monthly living allowance is provided, equivalent to €3655. Additionally, eligible ESRs can receive a monthly family allowance of €660, recognizing the needs of researchers with dependents. The scholarship also provides access to a high-quality work environment, including a personal computer, necessary scientific equipment, and full access to library and shared research facilities. An individual budget is allocated for research and travel expenses, supporting conference attendance and fieldwork. The Northern Ireland Department for the Economy’s contribution ensures full tuition fee coverage.
Required Documents for Application
Prospective candidates must prepare a specific set of documents to support their application for the FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Programme. The application form itself needs to be completed accurately and thoroughly. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) of no more than two pages is required, detailing academic and research experience.
Applicants must also submit a research proposal outlining their intended doctoral research project. Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees are necessary to attest to the candidate’s potential. A personal statement should be included, allowing candidates to articulate their motivations and suitability for the program. Finally, academic transcripts demonstrating educational achievements are essential.
Application Process for the Scholarship
The application process for the Queens University Belfast FORESIGHTERS Scholarship is managed through an online portal. Interested and qualified candidates are directed to the official scholarship website to begin their application. The initial step involves completing the application form and uploading all required supporting documents.
Following the initial submission, a Recruitment Committee will review applications and aim to shortlist between six and eight candidates. These shortlisted individuals will be invited for an individual online interview. For those who advance, a more detailed research proposal may be required. The Recruitment Committee will convene to review interview performance and research proposals, ultimately selecting the successful candidates. The university aims to complete this selection process efficiently, ensuring qualified individuals are identified for the program.
