The ECU–UoP Joint PhD Program offers a unique collaborative research opportunity for prospective PhD candidates from all academic disciplines. While the program is open to all fields, priority will be given to research in Defence, Cyber Security, and Criminology.
Beginning in 2026, one fully supported PhD scholarship will be awarded each year by each participating university—Edith Cowan University (ECU) and the University of Portsmouth (UoP)—for a period of five years. Selected candidates will receive joint supervision and benefit from the combined research expertise, infrastructure, and support services of both institutions.
Applicants may only apply for a scholarship at one of the two universities.
Important Dates
Applications Open: 10 November 2025
Applications Close: 22 February 2026
Who Can Apply
Domestic students
International students
Postgraduate research applicants
The program is open to candidates from all disciplines, with priority consideration given to research related to Defence, Cyber Security, and Criminology.
Key Program Features
One PhD scholarship offered annually by each university for five years
Joint academic supervision from ECU and UoP
Access to advanced research facilities at both institutions
Separate scholarship advertising cycles by each university
Applicants must apply through only one institution
Application Pathways
If ECU Is Your Home Institution
Apply through ECU’s scholarship system
ECU’s competitive scholarship round typically opens in September each year
If UoP Is Your Home Institution
Submit your application through the University of Portsmouth’s scholarship portal
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
Hold an offer (or receive a conditional offer) for admission into an ECU PhD or Integrated PhD program.*
Apply for one of the officially advertised research projects under this scholarship scheme.
Obtain endorsement from the nominated Principal Supervisor.
Be able to commence the PhD program and scholarship by July 2026.
*Applications submitted before the scholarship deadline that are not yet assessed will be considered. Conditional scholarship offers may be issued where necessary.
Terms and Conditions
ECU Applicants: Refer to the ECU Higher Degree by Research Conditions of Award.
UoP Applicants: Refer to the University of Portsmouth official scholarship webpage.
How to Apply
Access full application instructions through the official scholarship portal.
The online application system will be open from 10 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
Further Information
For inquiries, contact ECU Graduate Research Services at [email protected].
FAQs
1. How many scholarships are offered each year?
Each university—ECU and UoP—offers one scholarship per year for five years starting in 2026.
2. Is the program open to all research fields?
Yes, but priority is given to Defence, Cyber Security, and Criminology.
3. Can I apply to both ECU and UoP?
No. Applicants must apply to only one institution.
4. When will the scholarship start?
Successful candidates must begin their PhD program by July 2026.
5. Do I need supervisor endorsement?
Yes. Endorsement from your Principal Supervisor is mandatory.