Elizabeth Casson Trust Doctoral Studies Award 2026
Funding to Advance Occupational Therapy Research
Elizabeth Casson Trust
Program Location
• Dependent on enrolled university / research institution
The Elizabeth Casson Trust Doctoral Studies Award 2026 is a competitive funding opportunity designed to support occupational therapists pursuing doctoral-level research.
This award provides financial assistance to individuals undertaking a PhD or professional doctorate in occupational therapy or a closely related field that contributes directly to occupational therapy knowledge and practice.
The Trust aims to strengthen research capacity within the profession, support emerging research leaders, and expand the evidence base that informs occupational therapy practice and policy.
As a non-commercial partner of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the Trust may also enable awardees to access NIHR Study Support Service infrastructure for eligible research projects.
This initiative plays a vital role in advancing high-quality research that improves health, wellbeing, and participation outcomes for individuals and communities.
Eligibility Criteria
• Must be a qualified occupational therapist
• Applying for or currently enrolled in a doctoral programme (PhD or professional doctorate)
• Research must be relevant to occupational therapy practice or knowledge development
• Open to UK and international applicants
• Demonstrate academic potential and commitment to research impact
Program Benefits
Funding support includes:
• Financial contribution toward doctoral research costs
• Support to strengthen academic and research career development
• Potential access to NIHR research delivery infrastructure (where eligible)
• Recognition from a respected occupational therapy research charity
Program Level
• Doctoral Degree (PhD / Professional Doctorate)
Field of Study
• Occupational Therapy
• Rehabilitation Sciences
• Health & Social Care Research
• Allied Health Professions Research
Host Country
• United Kingdom (or host institution of doctoral study)
30 april 2026