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Careers, Employability and Enterprise
The bustling Careers and Enterprise Centre entrance in the Palatine Centre

Scientific Feasibility and Commercialisation Scholarship

The Scientific Feasibility and Commercialisation Scholarship offers Durham University PhD students a unique three-month opportunity to dedicate focused time to exploring a new scientific idea in depth.

Up to two students will receive funding to investigate the scientific and technical feasibility of a proposed project — concentrating on research fundamentals, defined milestones, and deliverables that could pave the way for future innovation.

Each scholarship provides £6,000 to support a three-month sabbatical, covering:

  • Living expenses (stipend at the UKRI rate during a cessation of studies)
  • Limited consumables
  • Travel and meeting costs

During this period, participants are encouraged to focus purely on the science — evaluating feasibility rather than market or commercial aspects.

Selection criteria include novelty, potential impact, and other project fundamentals outlined in the application form.

At the end of the scholarship, students will submit a short report summarizing progress and future directions.

Eligibility: Open only to current Durham University PhD students.

To apply, please contact Rachel Bickerdike