University of Oxford Research Studentship in Geotechnical Engineering 2026

This studentship will begin by exploring how different tree root system architectures behave under different combinations of vertical (V), horizontal (H) and moment (M) loading. This will be achieved using a recently developed, efficient numerical modelling approach for simulating root-soil interaction, coupled with physical model testing to determine root-soil interaction parameters. The results of this phase of the project will have direct application to hazard assessment of trees subject to windthrow in extreme storms and the use of trees in nature-based solutions (e.g. tsunami protection by mangroves). 

• Table of Content
• About University of Oxford
• University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship
• Requirements for University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship

• Course fees.
• The stipend (tax-free maintenance grant) is provided at c. £20,780 p.a. for the first year, and at least this amount for a further two and a half years.

Requirements for University of Oxford Postgraduate Scholarship Qualification

This studentship is funded through the Department of Engineering Science and is open to home and overseas students (full award – fees plus stipend).

Prospective candidates will be judged according to how well they meet the following criteria:

• A first class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent) in Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Physics
• Excellent English written and spoken communication skills

The following skills are desirable but not essential: 

• Previous study in Geotechnical Engineering or Structural Engineering
• Ability to program in Matlab or Python
• Previous experience in Finite Element Analysis

Application Deadline

How to Apply

• Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed in the first instance to Professor Jonathan Knappet [email protected]
• Candidates must submit a graduate application form and are expected to meet the graduate admissions criteria. Details are available on the course page of the University website.

Please quote 25ENGCI_JK in all correspondence and in your graduate application.

For more information, kindly visit University of Oxford scholarship webpage.