CAM-Doctoral Training Partnership PhD studentships

The CAM Doctoral Training Partnership (CAM-DTP) is a consortium between Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Cambridge, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

Logos of: Economic and Social Research Council, CAM-DTP, University of Cambridge, ARU, University of Bedfordshire, University of Suffolk

Our collective environment of excellent research and impact is an ideal complement for the interdisciplinary training of diverse social scientists. CAM-DTP PhD students will join a hub for regional change addressing key societal challenges and we are keen to attract talented doctoral researchers from a wide range of backgrounds.

CAM-DTP includes two additional Network Universities (University of Bedfordshire, University of Suffolk) who will increase their involvement in the DTP throughout the funding.

CAM-DTP applications for 2025 entry are now closed. We expect to open the next round of applications in autumn 2025. This will be for an October 2026 start.

CAM-DTP studentships provide a fee waiver, an annual stipend, and additional benefits. The length of funding will depend on individual candidates, and will range from 3.5-4.5 years full-time. Part-time study is also available. For full details of what the studentship provides, visit the CAM-DTP website.

Routes to funding

CAM-DTP offers two routes to the studentships: departmental nomination ("student-led"), and topic supervisor nomination ("supervisor-led").

Departmental Nomination – Student-led (Route 1)

For this route, applicants must apply to ARU directly and indicate on the application form that they wish to be considered for ESRC/CAM-DTP funding. You must discuss your application with a supervisor prior to applying, who will then inform the Doctoral School.

If you are interested in applying for October 2026 entry through Departmental Nomination, you can begin discussing this with your intended supervisor now. Please ensure that your supervisor is aware that they need to inform the Scholarships team in the Doctoral School of any Route 1 nominations.

Topic Supervisor Nomination – Supervisor-led (Route 2)

This route is through specific projects, chosen by the CAM-DTP. When open, projects and application requirements will be listed on this page.

For both routes, candidates will be required to attend an interview. The candidates successful at interview will then be required to complete some additional paperwork, prior to nomination for the funding. Being nominated by ARU does not guarantee funding.

If you have any questions that aren't answered below, email [email protected]

What does the studentship provide?

The CAM-DTP Studentship includes a fee waiver and annual stipend, as well as departmental allowance for research training needs, a personalised training programme and more. Visit the CAM-DTP website for further information.

Can I apply as an international student?

At present, yes. For 2025 entry, international students were eligible for the funding. However, they also needed to secure an additional scholarship to cover the difference in home and international fees. We will update this once we know the rules for 2026 entry.

Can I apply as a part-time student?

Yes – applications are welcomed from candidates wishing to study full-time and part-time.

What are the deadlines for applying?

Applications for 2025 entry have now closed, and this page will be updated with the deadlines for 2026 entry once they have been confirmed.

How do I contact a supervisor?

You can find a list of supervisors on the course page of your research area, or on our find an academic expert page..

Can I apply with my own project?

Yes, if you are applying for Route 1 (student-led) funding. Please contact your intended supervisor prior to applying. You can find a list of supervisors on the course page of your research area, or on our find an academic expert page.

When do I need to provide reference letters?

If you add your referee details to the application form, then our system will automatically send a request via email. We understand that applicants do not have control over when their referees respond, so while references are preferred by the application deadline, your application will not be marked down if they are missing.