The NETGAIN network and its partners have established an industry-sponsored PhD pathway to support professionals already working in industry who wish to undertake a doctorate alongside their role. Under this scheme, the sponsoring organisation funds the PhD studentship, and the candidate completes the research project while remaining in employment.
Projects will be co-designed between the candidate, their employer, and academic supervisors, ensuring that the research is both scientifically rigorous and directly relevant to the organisation’s priorities. Students will be fully embedded within the NETGAIN training and research environment, while continuing to develop their professional careers.
Key features of this pathway include:
- The studentship is (part or full) funded by the sponsoring organisation.
- The PhD can be undertaken part-time (min 0.5 FTE), allowing flexibility alongside employment.
- Co-supervision between academic and industry staff.
- Research projects grounded in real-world industry priorities.
Eligibility is open to individuals working in relevant industries who are Home-award-eligible and meet the academic requirements for PhD entry (normally holding at least an undergraduate degree, with a master’s degree desirable). Please note that this scheme is not open to International applicants.
If you or your organisation are interested in this pathway, please contact us via [email protected].