Elizabeth Casson Trust Doctoral Studies Award 2026: Funding to Advance Occupational Therapy Research

Introduction

The Elizabeth Casson Trust Doctoral Studies Award is now open, offering funding to support doctoral-level research that strengthens the evidence base of occupational therapy. This opportunity is designed to build long-term research capacity, expertise, and leadership within the profession by supporting occupational therapists undertaking PhD or professional doctorate studies.

Applications are welcomed from both U.K. and international candidates, with two funding rounds available each year.

About the Doctoral Studies Award

As part of its operational framework, the Elizabeth Casson Trust is committed to developing robust, practice-relevant evidence in occupational therapy. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by supporting the academic development of occupational therapists who can generate high-quality research and contribute to the profession’s future.

Funding is available for individuals undertaking doctoral studies that lead to the production of new evidence and the strengthening of research capacity within occupational therapy.

Partnership and Research Support

The Elizabeth Casson Trust is a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) non-commercial Partner. As a result, studies funded through this award may be eligible to access the NIHR Study Support Service, delivered by the NIHR Clinical Research Network, offering additional support for research delivery within health and social care settings.

Key Benefits

• Financial support for doctoral-level studies in occupational therapy

• Opportunity to contribute meaningful, practice-changing research

• Support for building long-term research and academic expertise

• Potential access to NIHR Study Support Service and research infrastructure

• Open to both U.K. and international applicants

Application Timeline

The Doctoral Studies Award accepts applications twice a year.

Current round: OPEN NOW
Application deadline: 30 April

Applicants are encouraged not to delay and to review the application timelines carefully to understand when funding decisions will be announced.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should review the official Doctoral Studies Award guidance and application details on the Elizabeth Casson Trust website. This includes eligibility criteria, funding scope, and information on accessing NIHR support services.

APPLY HERE. 

For more information about this apportunity, click here. 

Discover more doctoral funding opportunities here.