Dr Vinita Nahar OpenBright Scholarship

About OpenBright

OpenBright is a grant-making foundation and a registered charity in England (no. 1190215). Established in 2020, OpenBright supports women in developing university-level research projects through grants and awards. Their website provides more information about their aims and ethos. OpenBright has previously collaborated with the University of Wolverhampton on funding opportunities for women conducting research in technology.

The Dr Vinita Nahar OpenBright PhD Scholarship is a one-time, fully funded opportunity established in memory of Dr Vinita Nahar, a respected researcher and advocate for inclusive innovation. This scholarship supports a three-year, full-time PhD project commencing in August 2025 at the University of Wolverhampton. It is open to women applicants whose research applies data science and/or artificial intelligence to address pressing societal challenges.

Funded by OpenBright, a charity supporting women in technology research, the scholarship offers a tax-free annual stipend of £19,237 (with inflationary increases) and covers tuition fees at the home student rate. Proposals should demonstrate technological innovation, societal relevance, and a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.

The scholarship commemorates Dr Nahar’s dedication to impactful, inclusive research and her longstanding support for under-represented communities in computing. Applications must be submitted via the Application Form below by 30th June 2025.

For informal enquiries, please contact Emily Rodden at E.Rodden3@wlv.ac.uk.

This scholarship honours Dr Vinita Nahar, a passionate educator and researcher who sadly passed away in July 2023. Dr Nahar championed access to research and education for women and underrepresented groups and was committed to inclusive, socially impactful computing, collaborating with OpenBright during her time at the University to support their shared mission. Her work continues to inspire a more just and diverse future in technology.

This scholarship is open to applicants who:

• Self-identify as women

• Have a strong interest in research applying AI and/or data science to real-world issues

• Are eligible for home tuition fees or are international applicants willing to cover the difference between home and international tuition rates

To apply, you’ll need one of the following:

• A first-class or upper second-class honours degree, or

• A master’s degree, or

• Alternative qualifications or evidence of prior learning or practice, as accepted by the University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, especially those with lived experience and a commitment to making a difference through research.

Applicants must not already be enrolled in a PhD or hold a doctorate.

The scholarship provides:

• A tax-free stipend of £19,237 per year (with annual inflationary increases)

• Full coverage of home tuition fees for the three-year PhD programme

• Access to research support, mentoring, and academic development opportunities through the University of Wolverhampton

• Application Opens: 30th May, 2025

• Application Closes: 30th June, 2025

• Online Interviews: 21st-24th July, 2025

• PhD Start Date: August, 2025

To apply for the Dr Vinita Nahar Scholarship, please complete the online application form via the link below.

Your application must include:

• Research Proposal: A detailed outline of the proposed research, demonstrating its academic merit and potential impact.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current CV detailing academic qualifications and relevant experience.

• Personal Statement/Letter of Motivation: A statement outlining the applicant’s motivation, research interests, and suitability for the proposed project.

• Academic Reference: An academic reference supporting the applicant’s suitability for research study.

• Letter from Prospective Director of Studies: A letter from a prospective Director of Studies confirming the validity of the proposed research.

• English Language Proficiency (if applicable): Proof of English proficiency for international students, such as IELTS results.

Apply Here

Applications close on Monday 30th June 2025 (11:59pm, BST UTC+1).

We welcome PhD project proposals that apply data science and/or artificial intelligence to address significant societal challenges. Projects should demonstrate innovation in the use of technology, with clear relevance to communities or issues that are under-represented or under-served. Interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships with academic or external organisations are strongly encouraged.

For detailed information about the Dr Vinita Nahar OpenBright Ph.D. Scholarship, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and all associated details, you can download the full scholarship document below.

OB UoW Ph.D Scholarship - Reference Guide

As part of your application for the scholarship, you must secure the support of a prospective Director of Studies (DoS), who would act as your primary supervisor if your application is successful.

We encourage you to explore the Faculty of Science and Engineering staff directory to identify an academic whose research expertise aligns with your proposed project. Once identified, please contact them directly to discuss your ideas and request their support.

Your application must include a letter from your prospective DoS, which should:

• Confirm their willingness to supervise the proposed research

• Reference the project title

• Affirm the academic validity of the proposed project

• Where appropriate, comment on your preparedness or relevant experience, particularly if you are applying from a non-traditional or interdisciplinary background

Applicants from a wide range of academic pathways are encouraged to apply. We value research that bridges disciplines and promotes inclusive, socially impactful approaches.