Welcome to NINE DTP
Delivering Doctoral Training in the Social Sciences
The Northern Ireland and North East Doctoral Training Partnership (NINE DTP) is a collaborative enterprise between seven universities across Northern Ireland and the North East of England. Funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, we provide outstanding students with fantastic opportunities to conduct their doctoral studies and develop core research skills in an exciting and creative environment.
Each year, we award in excess of 50 studentships to exceptional social scientists across our seven partner universities, providing funding to support doctoral studies with awards ranging from three and a half year to five and a half years (or part-time equivalent). We are committed to working with our award-holders, partners and collaborators to deliver an innovative and engaging experience, allowing our students to deliver real-world impact whilst developing into the next generation of social scientists.
Prospective Students
Interested in applying for NINE DTP ESRC funding?
Current Students
Find out about the resources and support we provide
Additional funding & information
Apply for funding to conduct or develop your research, share knowledge, and develop new skills.
Click herePostdoctoral Opportunities
Apply for ESRC-funded Postdoctoral Fellowships
Interested in a postdoctoral position?
Find out more about our ESRC-funded postdoctoral positions, and how to apply.
Click hereTraining
Find out more about the training opportunities we offer to DTP students
Develop your skills
Find out about upcoming training events and activities, and help us to develop more!
Click hereCollaboration
Work with our partners outside of academia
Support for Academics
Current or prospective supervisor? Find out about our studentships
Support for Academics
Find out more about the NINE DTP, our ESRC funding, and how we can help you and your students.
Click hereHow we support our doctoral students
Stipend & Fees
NINE DTP awards ESRC studentships through an open competition, providing tuition fees and a tax free stipend
Training & Resources
We are committed to developing and delivering world-class training opportunities, providing doctoral students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the modern research environment
Exceptional Supervision
All DTP students benefit from exceptional supervision, with all pathways based in departments which have received international recognition for their excellence
Research Environment
NINE DTP is a hub of excellence in social science research, providing an innovative and engaging environment to allow students to excel
Additional Funding
NINE DTP provides additional funding to support conference participation, developmental opportunities, training and fieldwork - at home, or overseas
What our students and alumni say ...
ESRC NINE DTP scholarships carry a prestige recognised by both your host institution and those further afield. My award has given me the chance to pursue my ambitions. The range of adjunct opportunities available through a NINE DTP PhD ensure that I am able to acquire the skills and experiences necessary to conduct cutting edge social research and develop my doctoral employability. I strongly encourage others to explore this training partnership.Ben Rigby
"As a social scientist and a concerned citizen of the world, I am proud to be part of a grant scheme from the ESRC NINE DTP, which prioritises research projects with high social impact and also encourages innovative research in unexplored fields. As a PhD student, it is gratifying to work in an environment that is attentive to my career and research needs. Be it funding to fly to your next conference, a time extension to visit a foreign university, or help in the paperwork for your internship in a prestigious institution, you always know you'll find support." Carmen Granito