King’s College London is pleased to announce the John Grace QC PhD Scholarship (MHRUK) for the academic year 2026/2027. This fully funded postgraduate research opportunity is offered in the fields of psychiatry, psychology, and neuroscience, supporting a four-year PhD focused on advancing understanding of psychosis through innovative, large-scale brain imaging research.
King’s College London was founded in 1829 by King George IV and the Duke of Wellington. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United Kingdom and was established to provide education rooted in strong academic and ethical values. Over time, it became part of the University of London and grew into a leading global institution known for its research, teaching excellence, and contributions to fields such as medicine, law, and the humanities.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | John Grace QC PhD Scholarship |
| Study Level | Postgraduate Research (PhD) |
| Subject Areas | Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience |
| Funding Type | Full tuition + stipend |
| Duration | 4 years full-time |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start Date | 1 October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 22 April 2026 |
| Eligibility | Home students only |
Background
The John Grace QC PhD Scholarship is established to support advanced research in the field of mental health, with a particular focus on psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Traditionally, research in this area has examined individual conditions separately, which has limited a broader understanding of shared biological mechanisms.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree with 2:1 honours or international equivalent
- Candidates with a 2:2 degree may apply if they also hold a Master’s degree with Merit
Residency Requirements Home Students Only
Applicants must qualify as a Home student, which includes:
- UK nationals meeting residency rules
- Settled or pre-settled status
- Indefinite leave to remain or enter
Note: This scholarship is NOT available to international/overseas students.
Benefits
This scholarship provides full financial support for four years, including:
- Coverage of home tuition fees
- A tax-free annual stipend for living expenses
- Opportunity to work on a high-impact research project in psychosis
The research project explores how brain structure abnormalities are linked to:
- Risk factors e.g., childhood trauma, cannabis use
- Cognitive deficits
- Neurotransmitter systems
Students will analyse large datasets over 80,000 individuals to identify patterns that can improve diagnosis and treatment of psychotic disorders.
Application Process
To apply, follow these steps carefully:
- Submit an online application through the university admissions portal
- Select the programme:
Psychosis Research MPhil/PhD Full-time - Prepare and upload the following documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Qualification certificates
- Updated CV
- Personal statement as an attachment
- One academic reference
- In the Funding Section:
- Tick Box 5
- Enter reference: MK-IOPPN-MHRUK-2026
- No research proposal is required project is predefined
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 22 April 2026.
Conclusion
The John Grace QC PhD Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for UK-based students aiming to build a career in psychiatry, neuroscience, or psychological research. With full funding, access to world-class datasets, and expert supervision, it offers both financial support and academic excellence. If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a strong interest in mental health research, this scholarship can be a major stepping stone toward a meaningful and impactful career.