Graduate Ellison Scholars programme at the University of Oxford, UK

Applications are now open for the Graduate Ellison Scholars programme, a highly prestigious fully-funded doctoral scholarship at the University of Oxford for October 2027 entry. This competitive programme supports exceptional PhD/DPhil students across multiple research fields including computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, engineering, chemistry, biology, economics, mathematics, robotics, plant sciences, medicine, and microbiology.

The Graduate Ellison Scholars programme welcomes exceptional research talent from around the world who are committed to advancing innovative solutions to global challenges. There is no application fee to apply. Applicants can either apply for one of the published EIT projects or submit their own project proposal that aligns with the programme’s research aims. The application deadline is December 1, 2026, with early applications encouraged as they are reviewed upon receipt. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Degree Level: PhD
• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Host Institution: University of Oxford
• Funding Type: Fully-funded
• Application Fee: None
• Application Deadline: 1 December 2026
• Open to International Students: Yes

What This Scholarship Offers:

• Complete funding for your entire doctoral (DPhil/PhD) programme at the University of Oxford
• Direct engagement with cutting-edge EIT projects tackling global challenges
• Personalised mentorship from world-leading experts and researchers in your field
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to develop and deploy world-benefitting technologies
• Specialised experiences and tailored training designed specifically for Ellison Scholars
• Recognition as one of the world’s most exceptional research talents selected by the programme
• Accelerated and elevated progression track within your doctoral journey
• Opportunity to make meaningful and substantial contributions to innovative research with real-world impact
• Integration into a global community of exceptional scholars advancing EIT’s mission

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Eligibility Criteria:

• Meet the University of Oxford’s entry requirements for doctoral study
• Demonstrate an outstanding academic record, particularly in relevant disciplines (first-class degree, distinction in a master’s programme, or minimum GPA 3.7/4)
• Demonstrate proven ability to make meaningful and substantial contributions to your chosen project’s development and impact
• Show significant research and innovation experience that would allow you to quickly contribute to the project
• Have completed significant contributions to a major research project, laboratory work, or field study
• Submit a well-matched research proposal that aligns with your chosen EIT Project’s objectives
• Demonstrate genuine interest in your chosen EIT Project and commitment to its goals
• Provide honest and accurate information in your application form

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Demonstrable Skills Across Key Areas:

• Excellence: Outstanding intellectual curiosity and ability to apply knowledge critically to solve complex challenges
• Innovation: Creativity in embracing technological advancements and exploring innovative solutions; evidence through peer-reviewed publications, patents, or awards for innovative research
• Collaboration: Strong relationship-building abilities and experience in collaborative research, co-authored publications, or team-based initiatives
• Tenacity: Resilience and determination to overcome challenges; demonstrated through completion of rigorous projects and persistence in securing competitive opportunities
• Integrity: Commitment to ethical conduct, honesty, and reliability

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Eligible Research Fields:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Economics
• Engineering
• Machine Learning
• Mathematics
• Medicine
• Microbiology
• Plant Sciences
• Robotics

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Application Timeline:

September – December 2026

Applications to EIT

Submit your application to EIT. Deadline: 1 December 2026. Applications reviewed as received.

January – March 2027

Applications to University of Oxford

Selected candidates with conditional EIT funding offers apply to Oxford University. Independent admissions assessment conducted by the University.

April 2027

Scholars Announced and Onboarding

Graduate Ellison Scholars announced publicly and receive dedicated onboarding support from the Education & Scholarships team to prepare for arrival in Oxford.

October 2027

Programme Begins

Start your doctoral study at the University of Oxford and begin engagement with EIT Oxford.

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Selection Process:

The selection process is highly competitive. Candidates are assessed based on how well they demonstrate alignment with EIT’s mission, excellence in their field, innovation, collaboration skills, tenacity, and integrity. The assessment considers both your academic achievements and your potential to make meaningful contributions to your chosen EIT project.

Early applications are particularly encouraged, as applications are reviewed upon receipt rather than in a batch at the deadline.

How to Apply:

• Step 1: Review Your Research Area
• Step 2: Choose Your Project Route
  • Published Project Route: Apply for one of the published EIT projects listed for your research area
  • Own Proposal Route: Submit your own project proposal that aligns with the programme’s research aims and areas of interest
• Step 3: Prepare Your Application
  • Your academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Details of your research experience and contributions
  • Evidence of your skills aligned with the selection criteria (publications, awards, recognition)
  • References from academic supervisors or collaborators
  • Your research proposal clearly aligned with EIT project objectives
  • Any additional achievements, scholarships, or fellowships you have received
• Step 4: Submit Your Application to EIT

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