ILESLA Interdisciplinary Doctoral Training Programme 2026 (University of Oxford – Fully Funded PhD Scholarships)
University of Oxford
In collaboration with:
• The Open University
• Oxford Brookes University
Supported by UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)
Location: University of Oxford – United Kingdom
(With research placements at Oxford Brookes University & The Open University)
The Interdisciplinary Life & Environmental Sciences Landscape Award (ILESLA) is a prestigious, fully funded doctoral training programme designed to develop future research leaders capable of solving complex global challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss, food security, infectious disease, and sustainability.
The programme brings together expertise in life sciences, environmental sciences, data-intensive research, physical sciences, and engineering, offering students the chance to work across disciplines and institutions.
Doctoral researchers benefit from:
• Rotational research placements
• Dual or multi-supervisor mentorship
• Advanced scientific & professional skills training
• Access to world-class laboratories, field stations, and computational facilities
• A collaborative network of universities, industries, and research institutes
The program strongly supports applicants passionate about cross-disciplinary scientific research and global environmental & biological challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
• UK and international applicants (limited fully funded spaces for international students)
• Bachelor’s degree (First/Upper Second) for direct DPhil entry
• Background in biology, environmental science, ecology, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or related fields
• Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research
• Ability to meet University of Oxford graduate admission requirements
• Clear research interest aligned with life/environmental sciences, climate, data science, biodiversity, sustainability, or health-environment interactions
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, collaboration, and responsible research practices
Funding / Coverage
ILESLA Doctoral Studentship (Fully Funded – 4 years)
• Full University of Oxford course fees
• Annual tax-free stipend (£20,780 + £2,000 for 2025/26)
• Research & Training Support Grant (RTSG)
• Access to interdisciplinary training, workshops, and conferences
• Opportunities for rotations, industry collaboration, and cross-institutional research
Additional Notes:
• International applicants may face competition for limited funded slots
• Some specialist studentships (e.g., ILESLA–Pirbright) may have fee-status restrictions
• Applicants are expected to propose or join research aligned with ILESLA themes
Program Level
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD/DPhil) – 4 years
Eligible Fields / Program Areas
Core Themes:
• Biological Sciences
• Environmental Sciences
• Data Science & Computational Biology
• Ecology & Evolution
• Molecular Biology & Biotechnology
• Climate & Sustainability
• Interdisciplinary Systems Research
Example Research Areas:
• Biodiversity & ecosystem resilience
• Climate modelling and environmental data science
• Infectious diseases & One Health
• Food security & agricultural systems
• Molecular and cellular life sciences
• Environmental engineering & biogeochemistry
• AI/ML for biological & environmental research
26 december 2025