EIT Graduate Ellison Scholars Programme 2027

The Graduate Ellison Scholars Programme 2027 is a fully funded doctoral scholarship offered by the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) in partnership with the University of Oxford, United Kingdom.

The scholarship supports exceptional researchers who wish to pursue a DPhil (PhD) while contributing directly to research and innovation projects designed to address significant global challenges.

The programme is funded through the generosity of Larry Ellison, founder of EIT and Chief Technology Officer of Oracle. It combines doctoral education with practical research aimed at developing solutions through science and technology.

Graduate Ellison Scholars work on projects developed jointly by EIT and the University of Oxford. Research areas include pathogen diagnostics, plant biology, materials and devices for life sciences, economics, artificial intelligence and other specialised fields.

Applicants can explore published research projects or, where permitted, propose research aligned with EIT's priorities. Available options depend on the selected research area.

The programme seeks individuals with outstanding academic achievement, research capability, intellectual curiosity and the motivation to translate research into practical innovation.

Selected scholars receive access to EIT's research facilities, mentorship from experienced researchers and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

For the main EIT application route, shortlisted candidates receive a conditional funding offer before being invited to apply to the University of Oxford. The university independently evaluates their academic qualifications and decides whether to offer admission.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Academic qualifications: Meet the University of Oxford's entry requirements for the chosen DPhil programme.

• Degree status: Applicants completing their current degree may apply, provided they meet Oxford's entry requirements before admission.

• Research alignment: Demonstrate strong alignment with the selected EIT research area or project.

• Relevant skills: Possess knowledge, experience or technical skills relevant to the chosen research project.

• Research capability: Demonstrate the ability to make meaningful contributions to research and innovation.

• Academic excellence: Show outstanding academic achievement, intellectual curiosity and analytical ability.

• Innovation: Demonstrate creative thinking and the potential to develop or contribute to innovative solutions.

• Collaboration: Demonstrate the ability to work effectively with researchers and multidisciplinary teams.

• Programme commitment: Be prepared to undertake full-time doctoral study and contribute to the relevant EIT project.

• English proficiency: Meet the English-language requirements of the selected University of Oxford course.

The Graduate Ellison Scholars Programme provides:

• Full tuition coverage: Course fees for the duration of the eligible doctoral programme at the University of Oxford.

• Living stipend: A scholarship stipend intended to cover living costs in Oxford.

• Travel support: Eligible travel expenses associated with the scholarship.

• Conference support: Funding for relevant academic conferences and research activities.

• Personal technology: Support for the personal technology set-up required for the programme.

• Flights: Travel expenses associated with arriving in Oxford.

• Visa charges: Covered as part of eligible arrival expenses.

• Healthcare access: Support for healthcare-related arrival costs.

• Research facilities: Access to modern laboratories and specialised research facilities.

• Mentorship: Guidance and professional development from leading researchers and experts.

• Research collaboration: Opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects involving EIT and Oxford researchers.

According to EIT's official 2027 graduate application guide, applicants using the main EIT portal should prepare:

• Identification document: Valid passport, national identity card or birth certificate.

• English translation: Translation of the identification document, if available and applicable.

• Academic transcript: A transcript showing university courses and grades achieved.

• Research proposal: A proposal of no more than 1,500 words, including references.

• CV/Résumé: An academic CV submitted in PDF format.

• Research portfolio: Up to 10 entries demonstrating research experience, achievements or alignment with EIT's vision.

• References: Contact details for three referees, comprising two academic referees and one character referee.

• Video personal statement: A recorded video of no more than three minutes.

• Profile photograph: A passport-style photograph not exceeding 5 MB.

• Personal and academic information: Details requested in the official application form.

The EIT Graduate Ellison Scholars selection process assesses candidates using the following criteria:

• Research alignment: Strong alignment between the applicant's research interests, expertise and the selected EIT project.

• Academic excellence: Outstanding academic achievement, intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

• Innovation: Creativity and the ability to explore new approaches to scientific and technological challenges.

• Collaboration: Evidence of teamwork, effective communication and meaningful contributions to collaborative research.

• Tenacity: Resilience, determination and commitment to overcoming research challenges.

• Integrity: Honesty, reliability and ethical conduct in academic and professional activities.

• Research contribution: The potential to make substantial contributions to the selected EIT project.

• Study at Oxford: Pursue doctoral research at a globally recognised research university.

• Practical research experience: Contribute directly to EIT projects addressing real-world challenges.

• Research collaboration: Work alongside academics, scientists and technology specialists.

• Professional development: Receive mentorship, specialised training and research experience.

• Interdisciplinary learning: Explore research that connects different scientific and technological disciplines.

• Advanced facilities: Access specialised laboratories and modern research infrastructure.

• Long-term career development: Develop research skills and professional connections for future academic or industry careers.