The Leverhulme Trust has opened applications for the Keele University Sustainable Rural Futures (SURF) Scholarship, a prestigious fully funded 5-year opportunity for UK-domiciled candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. The award covers full tuition for both Master’s and PhD studies, a UKRI-aligned living stipend, and a £10,000 research allowance.
About the Keele University SURF Scholarship
The SURF Program, funded by the Leverhulme Trust, is designed to train a new generation of interdisciplinary rural researchers. It addresses urgent rural challenges while promoting inclusion and equitable access to higher education.
Key Features:
* Duration: 5 years (1-year Master’s + 4-year PhD)
* Host Institution: Keele University, United Kingdom
* Sponsor: Leverhulme Trust
* Application Deadline: August 18, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
* Be UK-domiciled
* Have, or be expected to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honors degree
* Belong to at least one of the following groups:
- Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, Mixed White and Black Caribbean, Mixed White and Black African, or other mixed backgrounds involving Black heritage
- Have received a full maintenance loan or Special Support Loan during undergraduate study
Scholarship Benefits
The Keele SURF Scholarship provides:
* Full tuition fees for both Master’s and PhD programs (5 years total)
* Living stipend based on the UKRI standard rate
* £10,000 research allowance for training and activities
* Additional funding for cohort-building and development events
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
1. Completed SURF “Masters Plus” application form available on the SURF website
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Academic transcripts and certificates
4. Passport
5. Language certificate (if applicable)
6. Two academic references (contact details)
How to Apply
1. Visit the SURF scholarship page
2. Download and complete the Masters Plus application form
3. Prepare all required documents
4. Submit your application via the Keele online portal
5. Applicants are welcome to:
- Propose their own PhD project
- Or respond to a specific call published on the SURF site
6. For project inquiries, email: surf@keele.ac.uk
Enrolment begins October 2025