Graduate Ellison Scholars
Drive innovation while studying at the University of Oxford as a fully-funded graduate
The Graduate Ellison Scholars programme provides fully-funded doctoral (DPhil/PhD) study at the University of Oxford, where graduate students directly contribute to progressing an EIT project. These projects tackle global challenges through cutting-edge technology, offering graduate students the chance to collaborate with world-leading experts to develop innovative solutions.
This highly competitive scholarship selects the world’s most exceptional research talent, whose insight, drive, and creativity mark them as outstanding scholars and future innovators ready to advance EIT’s mission from day one. Being an Ellison Scholar is not simply funding - it is recognition of the experience and achievements each Scholar already brings to EIT and to the University of Oxford. The Ellison Scholars programme further enriches their development through specialised experiences and tailored training, putting them on an elevated and accelerated progression track.
We are particularly interested in students with skills in fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, economics, mathematics, robotics, plant sciences, machine learning, chemistry, biology, engineering, medicine or microbiology. Applicants must demonstrate skills aligned with their chosen areas.
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Applications for October 2027 entry will open soon
Applicants for the Graduate Ellison Scholars programme will apply to projects aligned with one of EIT's research areas. Project opportunities for October 2027 entry will be advertised when applications open in September 2026.
For some of EIT's research areas, there will be an opportunity to apply with your own project proposal. Further information will be shared when available.
Register your interest to receive updates on project opportunities, application routes, and key dates for the next application cycle.
What do we look for?
Applicants must meet the University of Oxford’s entry requirements to be eligible for the scholarship.
Eligible applicants need to demonstrate how they meet our selection criteria in their application.
Alignment
Applicants must demonstrate alignment with their chosen areas for EIT Graduate Funding through:
- Proven ability to make meaningful and substantial contributions to the project's development and impact – i.e. the research and innovation experience that would allow them to quickly contribute to the project.
- A genuine interest in their chosen EIT Project, reflecting their commitment to its goals.
- A well-matched research proposal that aligns with the project's objectives.
Excellence
They are high-performers who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, intellectual curiosity and the ability to apply knowledge critically and effectively to solve complex challenges.
How this might be evidenced:
- Outstanding academic record, particularly in relevant disciplines (e.g., first-class degree, distinction in a master’s programme, a minimum GPA 3.7/4).
- Competitive scholarships, fellowships, competitions, academic awards or similar accolades at undergraduate or, where relevant, postgraduate level.
- Significant contributions to a major research project, laboratory work or field study.
Innovation
They are visionary learners who embrace technological advancements with creativity, challenge the status quo and explore innovative solutions to achieve transformative outcomes.
How this might be evidenced:
- Peer-reviewed publications, patents or other recognised contributions to innovative research.
- Participation in interdisciplinary or cutting-edge research projects.
- Awards or recognition for innovative research, academic presentations or technological advancements.
Collaboration
They are trusted collaborators who build strong relationships, foster teamwork and demonstrate the ability to bring people together to achieve success.
How this might be evidenced:
- Involvement in collaborative research projects, co-authored publications or multi-institutional studies.
- Contribution to team-based initiatives such as lab management, journal editing or academic committees.
- Experience in organising academic conferences, workshops or research symposia.
Tenacity
They are tenacious achievers who view setbacks as opportunities to learn and adapt and demonstrate resilience and determination to overcome challenges and achieve success.
How this might be evidenced:
- Completion of a rigorous research project, dissertation or thesis despite significant challenges.
- Persistence in securing research funding, scholarships or competitive opportunities.
- Long-term commitment to a research area, demonstrated through sustained academic contributions.
Integrity
They are trustworthy people who value honesty, foster openness and build trust through commitment to collective success.
How this might be evidenced:
- References or endorsements highlighting ethical conduct and reliability.
- Roles and responsibilities that require high ethical standards, such as student representative or community leader.
- Honesty and accuracy in the application form.
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