Queen’s University Belfast has opened applications for its prestigious FORESIGHTERS Doctoral Training Programme for 2026 entry. This Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND programme offers 20 fully funded Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) positions for outstanding candidates to pursue interdisciplinary doctoral research in the UK.
About the FORESIGHTERS Programme
FORESIGHTERS (Future ORiEnted Skills and Innovation for Governance for Health, Technology, EneRgy, CitieS and Creativity) is an innovative doctoral programme hosted at Queen’s University Belfast. It equips future research leaders with advanced training in futures thinking, foresight, and interdisciplinary skills to address complex societal challenges.
Researchers will work across one of five interdisciplinary themes:
- Health
- Technology
- Energy
- Future Cities
- Creativity
The programme combines academic excellence with real-world impact through partnerships with non-academic organisations. Participants benefit from training at the Thomas Moran Graduate School and develop skills in anticipating change, creativity, resilience, and sustainable research practices.
Key Benefits
Successful candidates receive a 42-month full-time employment contract with attractive benefits, including:
- Annual salary up to £37,734 (basic rate without pension)
- Family allowance of approximately £6,600 per year (if eligible)
- Full tuition fee coverage (supported by the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy)
- Generous research and travel grants for conferences, fieldwork, and networking
- Access to high-quality facilities, including a personal computer, library resources, and shared research equipment
- Support for Global Talent Visa applications
- Comprehensive staff benefits and professional development opportunities
This package provides financial security and resources to focus fully on impactful research.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet these requirements:
- Hold a degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree.
- Demonstrate strong motivation and potential for futures-oriented research.
- Not hold a doctoral degree by the application deadline (29 June 2026).
- Mobility rule: Have not resided or carried out main activities (work/study) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months before the deadline.
- Be eligible to live and work in the UK before starting the contract.
The programme encourages applications from underrepresented groups in academia and welcomes candidates from around the world (subject to mobility rules).
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- 2-page CV
- Supporting statement (maximum 2 pages)
- Outline research proposal (maximum 1 page)
- Academic transcripts
- References
- Any other details requested in the application
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Visit the official Queen’s University Belfast recruitment page and select the relevant Research Theme vacancy (Health, Technology, Energy, Future Cities, or Creativity).
- Click “Apply Online” and answer the initial screening questions accurately (related to UK residency and doctoral status).
- Create an account or log in to the QUB recruitment portal.
- Complete all sections of the application form, uploading the required documents in a single file where specified (CV, supporting statement, and research proposal outline).
- Submit your application by the deadline: Monday, 29 June 2026. Apply early to avoid technical issues. You may apply to multiple themes if eligible, but submit separate applications.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to online Research Theme Sandpits (early September) and interviews (early October).
- Successful applicants will be notified and supported with visa processes, with contracts expected to start in January 2027.