A fully-funded PhD for aspiring scholars seeking an academic career

Imperial Business School is at the heart of Imperial College London, one of the world’s leading universities in science, technology, business and healthcare.

Our full-time, fully funded PhD programme offers a transformational learning experience with the opportunity to work with colleagues from across the university, and will equip you with the skills to become a world-leading expert in your chosen field of research.

Benefit from a funded programme

Every student on our PhD programme is offered full funding, including a full tuition fee waiver (Home/EU or Overseas fees) plus a living stipend for up to five years. We also provide opportunities for you to act as teaching assistants and embark on high-quality teacher training, preparing you for the job market.

Lead research in your field

We want to unlock your potential -- so it’s good to know our own high standards are also internationally recognised. Imperial College London is ranked #2 in the QS World University Rankings 2026, and ranked #3 in Europe and #9 in the world by The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025

You’ll be amongst the best of the best. Internationally, our business expertise is recognised as leading the field. Seize the opportunity to work alongside insightful academics, as you’ll have access to further networking opportunities at research seminars and conferences.

Research areas

The Business School Master’s in Research (MRes) is an integral part of the PhD, introducing theory and research methods in Finance, Economics and Management, providing you with a solid foundation for your doctoral studies. You will then have the freedom to explore your chosen area of research over a further four years. We have research departments covering a range of specialist research areas, including:

●        Analytics & Operations

●        Economics & Public Policy

●        Finance

●        Innovation & Entrepreneurship

●        Marketing

●        Strategy & Organisational Behaviour

The Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation (CHEPI) is a global leader in research and teaching on health economics, policy, and management. It brings together faculty from the Department of Economics & Public Policy, the Department of Management, and the Department of Analytics, Marketing & Operations at Imperial Business School.

We welcome PhD applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who share a commitment to conducting cutting-edge research that shapes health policy and practice at global, national, and local levels.

How to apply

Applications are made through our online application system, giving you the flexibility to complete your application in your own time and save your progress. Apply by 2 December 2025.

Download a brochure to learn more