About the Programme

The Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarships Programme for ‘Neurodiverse Futures’ is a collaboration between Kingston University and Durham University. Our doctoral training aims to transform the understanding of neurodiversity and support a new generation of researchers to tackle major global challenges through fresh perspectives and innovative ways of thinking.

The prevailing discourse of the moment is one of unprecedented change and instability. Amidst global climate and political crises, pandemics, and the erosion of stable notions of meaning, there is an urgent need for research communities to consider new methodologies for the development of knowledge; to rethink scholarly histories, and to embrace the potential of difference.

We will respond to this question through the development of bold, interdisciplinary research agenda which aims to harness the potential of neurodivergent methodologies to reorient thinking on significant global issues.

A key feature of our programme is the neurodiversity-affirming approach. Lived experience will help shape research questions, methodologies and training throughout the programme. The programme is especially keen to support a neurodiverse doctoral training community.

Our research projects are student-led. Each research project is designed by the researcher with support from our excellent supervisory team. Each PhD will respond to one of five key themes.

Our Thematic Priorities

• Neurodiverse Cultural Histories: the ‘long history’ of neurodivergence in art, literature, and global cultures
• Neurodiverse Lifespans: the role of neurodivergence in responding to questions of childhood and older age inequalities, the family, and life-stage transitions
• Neurodiverse Stories: the role of individual and community narratives (aural, visual, and written) of neurodivergence as documents of representation and social justice
• Intersectional Neurodiversity: the role of neurodivergence in dialogue with and in response to questions of identity, such as race, gender, sexuality, and religion
• Neurodiversity and Inclusive Society: the role of neurodivergence in responding to questions of inclusion across built and natural environments, workplaces, and communities

PhD Opportunities

There will be three PhD intakes in October 2027, 2028 and 2029, each of approximately 8 researchers (plus a small number of Master+PhD awards) split across Durham and Kingston Universities.

Our PhD studentships fund up to 48 months of full-time doctoral study with a maintenance award at UKRI base levels and include £10,000 to support individual research and training needs - funding is provided within the terms and conditions of the Leverhulme Trust. Successful applicants will be expected to meet the institutional entry requirements for their lead institution (Durham or Kingston).

Over the course of the programme, up to six PhD scholarships may be offered to international researchers. These international scholarships will receive the same financial support as ‘home’ researchers. In addition, international scholarships will cover full international fees and provide support for visa and immigration costs. International applicants are not eligible for the Masters+ PhD route.

Sign up to our mailing list to hear more about our awards.

For 2026/27 entry the deadline for applications is 17:00 (UK time) on 22 January 2027.

• Please complete an Application form.
• Please also read the Applicant Guidance.