If you are an aspiring student looking to study abroad, there is an exciting new scholarship program at the University of Portsmouth, UK, in partnership with the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP).
This program offers a fully funded three-year doctoral research scholarship focused on empowering port communities in the Global South. The program is titled “From Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green” and will begin in February 2025. This article will explain the benefits of this scholarship, the requirements, and how you can apply.
Scholarship Overview
The University of Portsmouth, UK, in collaboration with PUCP, has announced a groundbreaking opportunity for international students.
The doctoral research program, part of the Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures (PCMC), explores how the transition from sail to steam impacted communities and infrastructure in seaports such as Callao, Peru.
This project also aims to explore how lessons from maritime history can help develop sustainable solutions for today’s port communities.
This opportunity is fully funded, making it an excellent chance for students who wish to focus on meaningful research.
Important dates and details
Here is a table that summarizes important details about the scholarship:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Program Title | From Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green |
| University | University of Portsmouth, UK |
| Partner University | Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) |
| Program Start Date | February 2025 |
| Application Deadline | October 7, 2024 |
| Funding | Fully funded (UKRI stipend, travel allowance, etc.) |
| Research Location | Callao, Peru |
| Languages Required | Fluency in Spanish (speaking and reading) |
Why You Should Apply
There are many reasons why this scholarship is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for international students:
- International Research Experience: As part of the program, students will get the opportunity to travel to Callao, Peru, to work with local communities and stakeholders.
- Generous Funding: This is a fully funded scholarship, which includes a stipend at the UKRI (United Kingdom Research and Innovation) rate. You will also receive travel allowances for international research and a special community engagement fund to assist in working with the local community.
- Exclusive Access to Resources: Students will gain access to the Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s vast maritime archive. This archive contains valuable information about the social and environmental effects of the fossil fuel-driven maritime industry.
- World-Class Mentorship: The program will provide mentorship from highly experienced scholars such as Dr. Rudolph Ng, Dr. Melanie Bassett, and Dr. Karl Bell at the University of Portsmouth. You will also work with Professor Jose de la Puente Brunke from PUCP in Peru.
Responsibilities of PhD Students
If you are accepted into this program, you will be expected to conduct research that combines historical analysis with social science data collection.
Your research will focus on understanding how maritime technological transitions, such as the shift from sail to steam, have impacted the heritage and attitudes of coastal communities in the Global South.
You will also contribute to shaping global knowledge on how decarbonization will affect marginalized coastal communities today.
What You Will Gain
By participating in this program, you will gain several skills and experiences:
- Organizing Workshops and Producing Educational Materials: You will be trained to organize international workshops and produce educational materials. Your findings will be shared with both academic and public audiences.
- Working with Leading Academics: You will collaborate with leading researchers and community groups, helping to connect historical research with modern challenges in maritime industries.
- Insights on Green Shipping: Your research will focus on how the lessons from maritime transitions can help inform current efforts to shift toward carbon-neutral shipping, especially in Global South port cities like Callao.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for this scholarship, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Academic Background: A strong academic background in History or a related field is required. You should have at least an upper second-class degree or equivalent.
- Fluency in Spanish: Since this program involves working in Peru, fluency in both spoken and written Spanish is essential.
- Interest in Collaborative Work: You should be passionate about working with local community groups and producing research outputs together.
- Willingness to Live in Portsmouth and Peru: As part of the program, you will need to live and work in both Portsmouth, UK, and Peru.
Benefits of the Scholarship
This scholarship offers several valuable benefits for successful candidates:
- Full Financial Support: You will receive full funding for the three-year doctoral program. This includes a stipend at the UKRI rate to cover your living expenses.
- Travel Funding: The program covers your travel expenses for international research, allowing you to visit and work in Peru without financial worry.
- Community Engagement Fund: You will receive additional funding to work with local communities in Peru. This fund will allow you to create impactful solutions that benefit the community.
- Access to Historical Archives: You will have exclusive access to the Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s maritime archive, which holds vital information on the environmental impacts of past maritime industries.
- Expert Guidance: Throughout the program, you will be mentored by experienced academics from both the University of Portsmouth and PUCP, giving you the opportunity to learn from the best in the field.
Documents Required
To apply for the University of Portsmouth Scholarships 2025 at Peru, applicants typically need to submit several important documents. Here’s a list of the key documents that are generally required:
- Completed Application Form: You must fill out the official application form provided by the University of Portsmouth.
- Academic Transcripts: Provide transcripts from your previous university or academic institution, showing your grades and qualifications. These should confirm your academic background, which is expected to be in History or a related field.
- Degree Certificates: A copy of your degree certificates to prove that you have at least an upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in History or a related discipline.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV that highlights your academic achievements, research experience, work history, and any relevant skills.
- Research Proposal: A well-written research proposal that outlines your intended research, how it fits into the “From Sail to Steam, Carbon to Green” project, and why you are the right candidate for the program.
- Language Proficiency Proof (Spanish): Since the program involves working in Peru, you will need to provide proof of fluency in Spanish, such as language certificates, to demonstrate that you can read and speak Spanish effectively.
- Personal Statement: A personal statement explaining your motivation for applying, your academic interests, and how this scholarship will contribute to your career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: At least two reference letters from academic or professional referees who can speak to your qualifications, research potential, and suitability for this program.
- Proof of Nationality: You may need to provide a copy of your passport or other documentation that proves your nationality, as this is an international scholarship.
- Writing Samples: Some scholarships may ask for writing samples, such as essays or research papers, to assess your academic writing ability.
Make sure to review the specific scholarship application instructions on the University of Portsmouth’s website or the scholarship announcement to confirm the required documents, as they may have additional requirements or guidelines.
How to Apply and Deadline
If this scholarship interests you, make sure to apply by October 7, 2024.
Applications can be submitted through the University of Portsmouth website.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable port communities.
Conclusion
The University of Portsmouth Scholarships 2025 at Peru is a life-changing opportunity for students interested in maritime history and green solutions for port communities.
With full funding, international travel opportunities, and mentorship from leading experts, this program will equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the world.
Make sure to apply by October 7, 2024, and take the first step toward an exciting career in maritime research.