A new £6 million scholarship scheme, which will also offer more than 100 postgraduate students a package of career training, is being launched by the University of Edinburgh.

The Principal’s Career Development PhD Scholarships, which are open to UK, EU and overseas students undertaking research in any field, will be offered over the next two academic years.

The scholarships include a package of career training that allows PhD students to simultaneously develop skills in research, and also in teaching, public engagement, or entrepreneurship.

Close to 60 scholarships will be offered per year for students beginning their study in 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.

Each scholarship will cover the home rate of tuition fee as well as a stipend which will increase each year. In 2010-2011 the stipend will be £13,500; in 2011-2012 this will increase to £14,000; and in 2012-13 it will be £14,500. Subject to satisfactory progress, the awards can cover the cost of studying at the University for up to three years.

The University's Principal, Professor Sir Timothy O'Shea, said the new programme was one of the biggest scholarships schemes ever launched by the University.

He said: “I am delighted to announce this innovative scholarship scheme which represents a substantial development in our scholarships provision. These prestigious PhD awards will ensure that the University of Edinburgh remains one of the world’s leading research institutions, attracting the brightest and best students from around the world.”

More information on the Principal’s Career Development PhD Scholarships can be found at: http://www.scholarships.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate/development.htm