Doctoral Landscape Awards
AHRC Doctoral Landscape Awards at Birmingham City University
The AHRC Doctoral Landscape Award is a major new funding scheme from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Its aim is to grow the UK’s capacity for doctoral research in the arts and humanities and to create a vibrant, inclusive research culture.
Birmingham City University is one of 50 universities across the UK awarded funding to support 15 doctoral studentships over five years. At BCU, we will offer six fully funded PhD studentships each year for the duration of the award – three funded by the AHRC and three match-funded by BCU. This represents a major institutional investment in the next generation of researchers and in building a thriving and a diverse research community.
BCU DLA doctoral students will belong to a cohort drawn from across the Midlands, benefiting from a rich, interdisciplinary training environment and a wide network of researchers across the region.
Fostering equality, diversity and inclusion
A key focus of the scheme is equality, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to attracting talented students from a wide range of backgrounds and providing the support they need to thrive throughout their PhD journey. As part of this commitment, one of BCU’s six studentships each year will be awarded to a home fee status candidate from a Global Majority background. This dedicated award continues the legacy of BCU’s That's Me! project, which addresses barriers to postgraduate research study and promotes widening participation in doctoral research across the West Midlands.
What is on offer?
As part of the award, BCU will offer:
- Six fully funded PhD studentships each year (covering home fees, stipend, and additional funding opportunities)
- One studentship each year dedicated to a Global Majority candidate, sustaining the legacy of BCU’s That’s Me! widening participation initiative
- Collaborative training, professional development and networking opportunities across the East and West Midlands
- Expert supervision and mentoring from leading arts and humanities researchers
- A welcoming, inclusive research environment with strong connections to cultural and industry partners
How to apply
Expressions of Interest open on 1 October 2025.
The deadline for an Expression of Interest is 12pm (noon) 17 November 2025.
The final application deadline is 12pm (noon) 27 January 2026
If you have any further questions please contact DLA@bcu.ac.uk.
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