Master of Science (by Research) in Chemistry

Scholarship in Sustainable Chemistry

Department of Chemistry in conjunction with Worcester College

Supervisor: Any member of Chemistry academic staff researching in the area of Sustainable Chemistry

Start date: 1st October 2026

Overview: Applications are invited for a scholarship to support an outstanding student to read for an MSc by Research degree in the area of Sustainable Chemistry (broadly interpreted) in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Oxford. The studentship will cover course fees at a Home rate and provide a stipend of no less than the standard UK Research Council rate (currently set at £20,780 p.a.) for 2 years. The scholarship is also open to Overseas candidates providing the difference between the Home and Overseas fee is covered by the individual. The scholar will be a member of Worcester College.  

Research Area: Sustainable Chemistry research is a core theme within the Department of Chemistry and the Department now seeks to appoint an outstanding student who is passionate about making breakthrough advances in this research area. The Department has many talented academics, specialising or combining Sustainable Chemistry into their research work, and recognises that the subject cuts across the traditional boundaries of Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry. As such, the Department will award this Scholarship to a student working on a research project in ANY of the department’s research themes: catalysis, materials, energy, biology interface, photon science, theory, mechanism and synthesis.

You can read more about sustainable chemistry research at Oxford here: Energy and Sustainable Chemistry | Department of Chemistry and read more about other research themes and academic staff working across the breadth of the Department of Chemistry here: Research themes | Department of Chemistry

All candidates are strongly encouraged to contact prospective supervisors prior to the application deadline to co-develop their proposed research projects.

Background to Scholarship Funding: The Joseph Rufino Cordeiro Foundation (“the Foundation“) was incorporated in January 2022 to honour the memory and legacy of the late Joseph Rufino Cordeiro who was of Goan origin and educated in India. The Foundation’s objectives include the advancement of science by providing funding for scientific research projects as well as improving scientific research capabilities among early-stage academic researchers. In line with these objectives, the Foundation is now expanding its support in this vital area of chemical research by supporting this MSc Scholarship. More details on the Foundation can be found at the following website: Joseph Rufino Cordeiro Foundation

Eligibility: Candidates who have obtained, or are very likely to obtain, a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in Chemistry or a related subject (e.g. physics, materials, engineering) are encouraged to apply. The candidate is expected to have a strong commitment to research and should have demonstrated the ability to independently learn new skills.

Candidates should submit a formal application for MSc by Research in Chemistry via the Oxford online application system (via the above ‘Apply’ button).

Application Guide | University of Oxford

Application deadline: 12.00 noon UK time on Thursday 8th January 2026.

Queries relating to the application and admission process should be directed to: graduate.admissions@chem.ox.ac.uk ; tel.: +44 (0) 1865 272569.

The Department of Chemistry holds the Athena SWAN Silver Award and is dedicated to promoting diversity, equality and inclusion.

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