FAQs - Aura Centre for Doctoral Training

Q: Are International students eligible to apply for Aura CDT Scholarships?

A: We have already recruited the maximum number of International students to begin their studies in September 2023. Unfortunately, this means that the current Aura CDT Research Projects are only on offer to Home applicants.
Q: What is a Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)?

A: A Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) is group of research organisations (universities and industry partners) combining research and expertise to support and train PhD students. CDT programmes provide fully-funded studentships providing financial support for doctoral tuition fees and a doctoral stipend for the full course of study.
Q: What are the benefits of studying within a Centre for Doctoral Training?

A: Membership of a cohort increases the student training experience: joining a supportive cohort of students from diverse academic background; opportunities to engage with researchers from a wide range of industrial and academic partners; enhanced training opportunities in both professional and personal development; career-building opportunities to make connections with industry and academic institutes.
Q: When does the programme start?

A: The programme began on 16 September 2019, with four further September cohorts over subsequent years.
Q: How do I apply to the Aura CDT?

A: Applications are open until 16 April 2023 for applicants beginning their study with the Aura CDT in September 2023.
Check out the diverse range of PhD Research Projects on offer.
Applications are made via our online application form – see our How to apply section for instructions on how to complete the form. If your application is successful, you will be invited to an interview; while Covid-19 restrictions apply, these will take place online.
If you have any further queries, please get in touch via email: auracdt@hull.ac.uk
Q: What qualifications do I need for my application to be considered?

A: Our applicants must have, or expect to obtain, a first class honours degree OR a Masters and an upper second class honours degree OR a distinction at Masters level with any undergraduate degree.
Applications for Core Scholarships are welcomed from prospective students from a wide range of academic and working backgrounds.
Specific criteria are given for specific Research Project Scholarships, as they relate to a specific research proposal.
All applicants should be able to demonstrate a strong interest in offshore wind and the environment, particularly if your background is in a different academic discipline.
Q: When do applications close?

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Got it!
Applications are open until 16 April 2023 for applicants beginning their study with the Aura CDT in September 2023. Check out the diverse range of PhD Research Projects or find out How to Apply.
Please contact auracdt@hull.ac.uk if you require any further advice around applications.
Q: I have already emailed you my CV, do I still need to apply online?

A: We only consider online applications using the official forms. Although we are not currently open to applicants.
Q: Is it possible to study part-time?

A: Yes, we welcome part-time students at the Aura CDT. However, Scholarships for part-time students are only available for UK students, due to Visa restrictions. Please contact auracdt@hull.ac.uk if you have specific questions about part-time study.
Q: What is a typical research project?

A: Please see our Research Projects section for PhD Scholarship research projects that are currently open to applicants. The page also contains examples of research being undertaken by Cohorts 1 – 3 of the Aura CDT, including several Industry Partner Scholarships. Research projects are varied, reflecting the Aura CDT’s unique focus on both energy AND the environment but all fit within our Six Themes.
Q: Do I need to submit a research proposal during the application process?

A: We don’t require a research proposal for applicants to our Scholarships as you choose which of our specific Research Projects are of interest to you. When completing our Supplementary Application Form, you should identify one or two research projects for which you wish to apply. You should also summarise your research interests and reasons for wanting to study with us.
For more information see our How to Apply section.
Q: Do I need to choose or contact a supervisor before applying?

A: No, you do not need to give us details of a specific academic you would like to work with. For specific Research Project Scholarships and for Industry Scholarships, the research proposal and supervisors are pre-defined. If you wish ask questions of the lead supervisor before applying, please direct these to auracdt@hull.ac.uk and we will ensure that your query is answered. We ask you not to contact supervisors directly.
Q: Where will I graduate from?

A: From the second year, candidates will be based at the university of their lead academic supervisor and will graduate from that institution.
Q: I don’t have a background in energy or environmental science, will you still consider my application?

A: We welcome applications from graduates of a wide range of STEM subjects, including: biology, chemistry, computer science, earth science, all branches of engineering, geography, mathematics, physics, psychology. Please let us know why you have an interest in offshore wind and the environment, particularly if your background is in a different academic discipline.