In this supervisor-led competition, ‘Collaborative’ is defined broadly and covers studentships that are supported by private sector companies, public sector bodies or third sector organisations. 

Please ensure that you read the guidance carefully before applying and watch the introduction and case study videos below. Interested parties should pay particular attention to the expected financial contributions from collaborative partners and the requirements for recruitment in the guidance. 

ESRC is conducting a Mid Term Review of all DTPs during late 2026, which SGSSS is looking forward to participating in. The outcome will be shared towards the end of the year, and confirmation of studentship awards made will be subject to that outcome.

 To be eligible to be first supervisor in any SGSSS competition, supervisors must meet the criteria listed in our Supervisor Eligibility page.

Second supervisors may work within any of the SGSSS 16 partner HEIs. We encourage applicants to consider co-supervision with different universities across our network. You can find full information about the SGSSS partner universities online here.

Please submit an application via our application system, SGSSS Apply, by the application deadline, 5pm on 15 October 2026.