PhD Law Scholarship for Black British Researchers – September 2027 Entry

The City Law School, City St George’s, University of London, is offering a fully funded, three-year PhD scholarship for a Black British researcher commencing in September 2027.

We welcome applications from talented and ambitious graduates who are interested in undertaking original research in any area of law.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals who may not previously have considered doctoral study or an academic career.

About The City Law School

The City Law School is a welcoming and diverse community of scholars and students, with recognised strengths in teaching and research across a broad range of legal disciplines.

Located in the heart of London, we are committed to academic excellence, supporting emerging researchers and creating opportunities for individuals from backgrounds historically underrepresented in doctoral research.

Our researchers work across a wide range of legal subjects and methodologies, offering opportunities to pursue innovative research with experienced academic supervisors.

What the scholarship offers

The scholarship provides:

• A full tuition fee waiver for three years.
• An annual tax-free bursary, in line with the applicable UKRI stipend rate (2027/28 amount to be confirmed).
• Up to £1,000 towards research expenses over three years, including training, equipment and conference attendance.

Successful applicants will join The City Law School's research community and have opportunities to develop their research skills, participate in academic events and engage with researchers working in their field.

Who can apply?

Applications are invited from applicants who meet the eligibility requirements for UK home-fee status and identify as Black or Black British (African, Caribbean, Other or Mixed).

The scholarship is for full-time study, and applicants must be able to commit to a full-time doctoral programme.

Applicants should have:

• An undergraduate degree in law (LLB or equivalent) with at least a 2:1 classification.
• Normally, a Master's degree in law or a related discipline, with at least a Merit or equivalent.
• Evidence of the ability and motivation to undertake independent, high-level research.

We welcome research proposals across all areas of law, particularly those aligned with the expertise of our academic staff.

You do not need to have an established academic career plan to apply. If you are interested in exploring a legal question in depth and contributing new knowledge to your field, we encourage you to consider this opportunity.

Interested in applying? Talk to us first

We recognise that applying for a PhD can feel daunting, particularly if you are unfamiliar with doctoral research or have not previously considered an academic career.

We warmly encourage prospective applicants to contact us before applying.

An informal conversation with our Senior Tutor for Research can help you:

• Explore whether your research idea could form the basis of a PhD.
• Identify a suitable supervisor.
• Understand what doctoral study involves.
• Develop your research proposal and prepare for the application process.

You do not need to have a fully developed research proposal before getting in touch.

Email: Law.PhD.Administration@city.ac.uk

You can also explore our research centres and academic staff profiles to learn more about our research expertise.

How to apply

Please complete the form here

(PhD in Law, Scholarship application)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.

If you are currently employed by City St George's, please indicate in your application that your line manager is aware of your application.

Application deadline: 12 noon, Friday 26 February 2027

PhD start date: September 2027.

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