How to apply

Recruitment for the first cohort of AHRC ‘Crafting Care’ Doctoral Focal College PhD students launched on the 7th October 2025.

We invited proposals from prospective PhD candidates who wish to undertake doctoral research linked to one of our four Project Areas for 2026.

Details of the application process can be found below:

If potential candidates require large print versions of these documents, or versions that are more screen reader friendly, please do get in touch at craftingcare@liverpool.ac.uk.

The studentship application process consists of two phases:

Expression of Interest Phase

Candidates were invited to submit an Expression of Interest form by the 1^st December 2025. On the Expression of Interest form candidates were asked to outline their preliminary ideas for a PhD project and detail their ‘Preparedness for Postgraduate Research’. An Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form was also submitted at this stage. No further Expressions of interest are now being accepted for 2026 entry.

Research Proposal Phase

Candidates who are shortlisted at the Expression of Interest phase will be contacted in early January and invited to submit a full Research Proposal by the 1^st April 2026. In addition to the full Research Proposal itself, candidates will be asked to reflect on ethical considerations, additional funding needs, and – if applying for a Collaborative Doctoral Award – the plans with the non-HEI Partner.

AHRC Crafting Care Research Proposal Form

Please direct any queries about the application process to craftingcare@liverpool.ac.uk