EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Awards (DLA) - Summer Research Placements

Summer research placements in Engineering and Physical Sciences for undergraduate and integrated Master's students

We are delighted to offer 25 placements for current undergraduates and integrated Masters students to undertake a research project at Newcastle University during the Summer vacation 2026.

The deadline for applications is 11th May 2026.

Placement Scheme Overview

The Summer Research Experience Placements are an opportunity for Undergraduates to undertake a research placement in the Engineering and Physical Sciences remit and gain an understanding of the research career opportunities available, including a PhD research degree.

During the placement the Undergraduate will be employed by Newcastle University for 8 weeks to complete a short-term research project with an academic supervisor (and team). This can take place over July – September 2026. Part-time/flexible working options will be considered. Please contact the project supervisor to discuss. 

A short introduction session will also be provided to ensure you are supported during your placement, and you have a chance to meet other placement students.

Funding

Successful applicants will be paid the real living wage (£14.12 per hour) and where necessary receive a contribution towards research and training expenses during the placement.

Please note that accommodation is not provided. Students are responsible for making the arrangements and covering the costs for accommodation.

Accommodation

Newcastle University's well-connected student accommodation may be available from 1st July - 31st August. This is not funded as part of the scheme and students wishing to make use of it will need to arrange and pay for it themselves.

We offer both short-stay and long-stay accommodation options, as well as catering packages which include breakfast, lunch, and evening meals.

Find out more information on our website, where you can fill in a booking enquiry form.

Student eligibility

You must meet the following criteria:

• Be eligible for home fee status at the end of their undergraduate degree (i.e. have UK, EU or right to remain residency in the UK).
• Be registered on an undergraduate degree related to EPSRC’s remit during the internship, either between their second and third, or third and fourth year. The internship cannot be taken after your final year and cannot be part of a normal degree course.

Research projects

There are 34 Research Projects that you can take part in during your summer placement.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 11th May 2026.

To be considered for a placement, please apply to doctoral.awards@ncl.ac.uk providing the following:

• A cover letter (stating why you would like to undertake this placement, any skills or experience you would bring to this project, and what your future career/studies plans are) with the project code noted (see project list)
• A CV
• A reference
• An interim transcript
• Complete the mandatory online EDI form: EPSRC Summer Vacation Placements - Equality & Diversity Form 2026 – Fill in form

Next steps

Once you have applied the academic supervisor will review the applications received for their project and will nominate their preferred candidates. At this stage you will be contacted with an outcome.

Nominated candidates will be invited to interview.

Placements will be confirmed by the 5^th June 2026.

Contact

Please contact doctoral.awards@ncl.ac.uk if you have any questions.

We also encourage you to contact the placement supervisor to express your interest in the project and find out more.