What is a CHASE Studentship?

A CHASE studentship supports outstanding doctoral researchers with funding, training and participation in cross-institutional and cross-disciplinary research networks. It offers full- or part-time funding to cover fees and living costs (see details below). Additional funds are available for skills development, including language training, and to support research expenses.

What is doctoral research?

Doctoral research is independent original research towards a doctoral degree, or PhD. This is a postgraduate degree taking between three and four years to complete on a full-time basis (or six to eight years part-time). You will write a dissertation (an extended piece of writing summarising your research) or an equivalent creative practice submission with the support of a team of academic supervisors. More importantly, doctoral research allows you to pursue a research question of your own devising, make an original contribution to knowledge, and to open doors to a range of research-led professions.

A detailed explanation of doctoral research is available at https://www.findaphd.com/advice/finding/what-is-a-phd.aspx (external link)

What does a CHASE studentship offer?

If selected for a CHASE studentship, your fees will be paid for the duration of the degree, and you will also receive a tax-free stipend to cover living expenses. UKRI minimum stipend is listed here. You will also have access to support funding to cover the costs of your research and professional development, whether that’s field trips or sharing your work at conferences, for example. You can also access specially designed training courses to help you develop your research skills, and undertake placement projects with partner organisations.

Stuart Hall Foundation CHASE AHRC Studentships

CHASE is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Stuart Hall Foundation (SHF) to support at least two studentships a year for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates to undertake doctoral research in arts and humanities. All applicants will also be entered into the general studentship competition. 

As well as the usual benefits of a CHASE studentship, recipients of this award will benefit from working with SHF to develop their career and research profile. They will enjoy privileged access to the work of the Foundation be able to engage with and contribute to its resources and networks, including the annual gathering of Stuart Hall Foundation Scholars and Fellows. 

These studentships are available to start in October 2025.

Should I apply for a CHASE studentship?

Yes, if you have the skills and passion to undertake interesting and original humanities the arts research at a leading university. You are welcome to discuss your ideas with our experts in the relevant field. You can search for academics on our member institutions’ websites. You should have a good undergraduate degree (normally a First or 2:1). Most applicants will already have or be studying for a Masters degree in a relevant field, but others will have relevant work experience that has given them the knowledge and skills to undertake a research project.