Informatics PhD Shadowing Scheme

This scheme gives undergraduate and Masters students the chance to spend one day with a current PhD student in Informatics. You’ll observe their typical activities, ask questions informally, and find out how PhD study really works.

Many students never consider a PhD, not because they aren’t capable, but because they are unsure of what it involves. This scheme offers a realistic, first-hand look at what research is like, so you can decide whether it might be the right path for you. 

PhDs in Informatics are open to students from a wide range of backgrounds, and most programmes are fully funded, with tuition fees and a monthly stipend for 3.5-4 years. Spending a day with a current researcher is the best way to see how it all works.

What you'll do

  • Spend a day alongside a PhD student at the School of Informatics.
  • See what daily routine of a research student looks like in practice (coding, reading, lab meetings, problem-solving).
  • Ask anything you want about PhD life — application process, funding, supervision, workload, challenges and opportunities.
  • Get a realistic, unfiltered view of what it means to be a research student.

Why take part?

  • Discover whether a PhD could be the right next step for you.
  • Meet current PhD students and hear how they got started.
  • Learn about funding opportunities and pathways into research.
  • Build your confidence about aiming higher after your degree.

Who can apply?

  • Students from under-represented groups in Computer Science: female, first generation to attend university, lower-income background, ethnic minority (in the UK), disability (including hidden) or learning differences, caring responsibilities, care-experienced, estranged student
  • Undergraduate and postgraduate students from UK universities.
  • Open to students from any subject area, as long as you are curious about pursuing research studies in Computer Science.

Practical details

  • When: 1 day in November 2025 – January 2026 (you’ll be able to arrange a date that suits both you and your PhD host)
  • Where: University of Edinburgh, School of Informatics, informatics Forum, 10 Crichton street, EH98AB Edinburgh.
  • Support: £30 bursary to cover public transport is available. Lunch and refreshments will be provided on the day.

How to apply

Complete the application form.

As part of this application form you will be asked to provide a 150-word motivation statement as to why would you like to take part in the Informatics PhD Shadowing scheme.

Deadline for applications: 3 November 2025, 23:59

Places on this scheme are limited. We will get back in touch with the outcome of your application by the 30 November at the latest.

Questions

Any questions, please email:

Student FAQ

Not at all. The whole point is to show you what research looks like day-to-day. You don’t need to have done any research before.


No. You can be in any subject area, as long as you have an interest in Computer Science or related fields.


Absolutely. You don’t have to be set on doing a PhD. The idea is to help you explore the option and make an informed decision.


Not at all. Participation in this scheme will have no bearing on any PhD applications you may submit to the University of Edinburgh. So don’t feel like you need to take part just for the sake of boosting your PhD application.


Unfortunately not. Places on this scheme are limited and will be allocated based on the applicant’s motivation and circumstances and the availability of a good match from our pool of PhD student hosts.


No preparation is required. Just bring your curiosity and any questions you’d like to ask about PhD studies.


All hosts are current PhD students at the School of Informatics, from Year 1 to Year 4. They have a wide range of research interests and personal backgrounds. We’ll try to match you with someone whose work aligns with your interests, but this can’t be guaranteed.


No. Your host will explain their work in plain language. You can focus on asking about PhD life rather than the technical details.


Coding, reading, and problem-solving are a big part of research, but that’s exactly what being a PhD student involves. You’ll also see how they interact and collaborate with supervisors and peers, how they manage their time, and what their workloads are like. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and will be able to receive advice on funding opportunities and application process, should you consider applying for a PhD here.


Lots of students feel unsure about whether a PhD is “for them.” That’s exactly why this scheme exists. Your host knows you might be new to this, and they’ll be ready to answer any questions — big or small.


Just one day. The exact length of your visit can vary. You and your PhD host will agree on a day that works for both of you.


Yes. If you need to travel to Edinburgh, you can claim up to £30 towards public transport costs. Lunch and refreshments will also be provided on the day. Accessibility requirements will also be accommodated to the best we can — just let us know what you need on the application form. 


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