The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), in partnership with Cardiff University, is proud to announce the King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) PhD Scholarships. This prestigious initiative, launched by His Majesty the King, aims to enhance the research capacity of academic staff at universities in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) by supporting them in undertaking a part-time, in-country PhD with joint supervision from a partner university.
Cardiff University, founded in 1883 as the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire, is a leading research-intensive institution in the UK. It became a founding member of the University of Wales before gaining independent status in 2005. Known for its excellence in teaching and innovation, Cardiff University is ranked among the top universities globally and is part of the prestigious Russell Group. With a strong commitment to research and global engagement, it has made significant contributions to fields such as medicine, engineering, and social sciences, attracting students and scholars from around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) PhD Scholarships |
| Administered by | Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) |
| Target Group | Academic staff from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) universities |
| Number of Scholarships | 20 total (1 at Cardiff University) |
| Fields of Study | Climate resilience, health, education, engineering |
| Duration | 6 years (part-time PhD) |
| Financial Support | Research grant, travel funding, salary contribution |
| Application Deadline | 25 April 2025 |
Background
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face unique challenges, including vulnerability to climate change, limited resources, and economic constraints that hinder academic and research advancements. Recognizing these challenges, His Majesty the King launched the King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) as a transformative initiative to support scholars from SIDS in enhancing their research capabilities and contributing to national and global development.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be academic staff at a university in a Small Island Developing State (SIDS).
- Be seeking to pursue a part-time, in-country PhD.
- Choose a research topic aligned with one of the four thematic areas (climate resilience, health, education, or engineering).
- Have the endorsement of their home institution.
- Identify a preferred co-supervising university, such as Cardiff University.
Benefits
The selected scholar at Cardiff University will receive:
- Dedicated joint PhD supervision from their home university and Cardiff University for six years.
- Up to £30,000 in funding to spend up to six months at Cardiff University (one or multiple visits).
- A £12,000 research grant (£2,000 per year) to support academic work.
- A 20% salary contribution to their home institution to enable their participation.
- Training opportunities in science communication, policy engagement, and professional development.
- Membership in the King’s Fellows cohort, which includes training in public speaking, research funding applications, and policymaker engagement.
Application Process
The application process is managed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), and applicants must:
- Complete the application via the ACU portal.
- Outline a detailed research plan aligned with one of the four themes.
- Identify their preferred co-supervising university.
- Provide endorsement from their home institution.
- Submit all required documentation as per the ACU guidelines.
Applicants can access the guidance document and FAQs on the ACU website for further details.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 25 April 2025.
Conclusion
The King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) PhD Scholarships presents a unique opportunity for academic staff from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to advance their research and contribute to their home institutions while benefiting from international collaboration. With joint supervision, financial support, and professional development opportunities, this scholarship empowers scholars to make a meaningful impact in fields crucial to global development.