The Hoogenboom Scholarship programme is designed to empower bright female students from selected African countries to pursue a master’s degree at the Lyell Centre, one of the UK’s leading research institutes in geosciences, marine systems, and environmental sustainability. This scholarship is part of a five-year initiative to support 30 scholars, providing full funding and a stipend to cover living costs while giving access to world-class research facilities, expert teaching, and a strong academic network.
Scholars will undertake a master’s degree in one of three MSc programmes, all focused on tackling critical environmental and planetary health challenges:
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MSc Global Environmental Change and Policy – Explore global environmental challenges, climate change, and the policy mechanisms to address them.
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MSc Sustainable Geoenergy – Focus on sustainable energy technologies, resource management, and geoscientific approaches to energy solutions.
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MSc International Marine Science – Study marine ecosystems, oceanography, and international strategies for marine sustainability.
The programme aims to produce leaders who will drive positive environmental and societal change in Africa and globally.
Award: Full tuition plus a stipend towards living costs
Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Opening Date: 19 January 2026
Closing Date: 26 April 2026
Level: Postgraduate (MSc)
Mode: Full-time
Number of Awards: 6 (one per year for five years; 30 in total over the programme)
School: School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Female nationals from Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, or Malawi
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Holders of an offer for one of the eligible MSc programmes at Heriot-Watt University
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Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential
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Proven commitment to impacting their home country through environmental, sustainability, or planetary health initiatives
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Preference for applicants whose undergraduate studies were completed at a university that is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), ensuring strong academic preparation and institutional alignment
The scholarship is targeted at students from Sub-Saharan Africa and prioritises applicants from countries strategically aligned with Scotland’s international development priorities.
Award Benefits
The Hoogenboom Scholarship provides full financial support, including:
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100% tuition fee coverage for the selected MSc programme
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Stipend for living expenses while studying in Edinburgh
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Access to world-class research facilities at the Lyell Centre
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Engagement with leading academics and professionals in geosciences, environmental policy, and marine science
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Opportunities for networking, mentorship, and career development within Scotland and internationally
Application Process
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Opening date: 19 January 2026
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Closing date: 26 April 2026
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Applications must be submitted via the university’s scholarship portal
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Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview as part of the selection process
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Successful applicants will be notified and supported through enrolment and integration into the Lyell Centre community
Applicants are assessed based on academic record, financial need, leadership potential, and commitment to making a tangible impact in their home country.
Why Apply?
The Hoogenboom Scholarship is more than funding—it is a transformational opportunity to:
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Study at a globally recognized research centre
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Gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills in environmental sustainability, geosciences, and marine science
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Join a network of future leaders and change-makers from Africa and beyond
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Make a measurable impact in your home country through applied research and policy initiatives
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