Information sessions and webinars

Our Access to Research webinars are a great way to find out more about PhD study, including what's involved in the application process. You'll hear from current PhD students and academics, and have the opportunity to ask any burning questions. Sessions run twice a year, from September-October and March-April. Check our events to find out when sessions will take place and to sign up. 

What is a PhD? online webinar

This session covers the basics, including:

• What's involved in studying for a PhD

• The benefits of studying for a PhD

• The different types of PhD programme you can study

• Where to look for opportunities and funding

• How to decide whether a PhD is the right choice for you

Sign up for the 30 September 2026 webinar

Sign up for the 3 March 2027 webinar 

Funding your PhD online webinar

This session is a closer look at the different ways you can fund your PhD, including:

• Finding and applying for scholarships

• Ring-fenced scholarships

• Options for self-funding

Sign up for the 7 October 2026 webinar

Sign up for the 10 March 2027 webinar 

University of Leeds Access to Research PhD Scholarship application workshop

In this workshop we will explore the Access to Research PhD Scholarship (A2RS) application process, including:

• Application stages and deadlines
• What you need to include
• How you will be assessed
• What the selection panel are looking for
• How the A2RS application process is different to other scholarships

You'll also have the chance to hear from successful applicants who are currently studying for a PhD at Leeds.

Sign up for the 27 January application workshop

Proposing a PhD project online webinar

This session covers everything you need to know about proposing your own research project, including:

• How to find and contact potential supervisors

• Developing a research proposal

• Funding arrangements 

Sign up for the 14 October 2026 webinar

Sign up for the 17 March 2027 webinar 

A2R Advocacy Scheme online webinar

This session covers everything you need to know about the Access to Research Advocacy Scheme, including:

• How to apply

• The benefits of taking part 

• How we'll match you with a supervisor 

Sign up for the 21 October 2026 webinar

Sign up for the 24 March 2027 webinar 

Where can a PhD take you? webinar

Join us for an engaging online session designed for prospective and current postgraduate research (PGR) students, exploring the myriad career paths that a PhD can open beyond academia. Our diverse panel of speakers from various industries will share first hand experiences and insights gained from their PhD journey, shedding light on how it aided them towards fulfilling careers.

Sign up for the 4 November 2026 webinar

Sign up for the 31 March 2027 webinar

Research internships online webinar

This session provides an introduction to research internships, including:

• What research internships involve

• How to find opportunities

• Making the most of your internship

• Using your internship to think about whether a PhD is right for you

Dates tba

 

Our Ask a PGR sessions hosted in the PGR Lounge at the Leeds University Union are a chance to speak to current PhD students about their experience. Whether you want to chat with someone from a similar discipline or background, ask all of those burning questions while enjoying complimentary tea, coffee and cake!