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ueen's University Belfast have now opened applications for 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) in the Foresighters Doctoral Training Network. Funded by Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND and the Department of the Economy (Northern Ireland) . This offers an exceptional opportunity for future research leaders to access an innovative programme of doctoral training and engage in high impact, inter-disciplinary research with a wide range of non-academic partners, at one of the UK’s leading universities. Applications close on 29th June 2026.
ueen's University Belfast have now opened applications for 20 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) in the Foresighters Doctoral Training Network. Funded by Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND and the Department of the Economy (Northern Ireland) . This offers an exceptional opportunity for future research leaders to access an innovative programme of doctoral training and engage in high impact, inter-disciplinary research with a wide range of non-academic partners, at one of the UK’s leading universities. Applications close on 29th June 2026. Lead by the QUB Planning School, researchers will b
e based in academic units across the university, from engineering, humanities, social science and the arts, and working within one of 5 inter-disciplinary research themes (Health, Technology, Energy, Future Cities and Creativity ). The cohort of researchers will be bound by a common perspective and training in Futures Thinking and Future Literacy, and will develop the skills and capabilities to understand, imagine, and critically use different ideas about the future to better understand key societal challenges. Foresighters ESRs will be trained in skills for anticipating change and using multiple possible futures to stimulate reflection, creativity, resilience and focus for contemporary action. The training programme also has a strong emphasis on the development of sustainable, diverse and equitable research environments.
e based in academic units across the university, from engineering, humanities, social science and the arts, and working within one of 5 inter-disciplinary research themes (Health, Technology, Energy, Future Cities and Creativity ). The cohort of researchers will be bound by a common perspective and training in Futures Thinking and Future Literacy, and will develop the skills and capabilities to understand, imagine, and critically use different ideas about the future to better understand key societal challenges. Foresighters ESRs will be trained in skills for anticipating change and using multiple possible futures to stimulate reflection, creativity, resilience and focus for contemporary action. The training programme also has a strong emphasis on the development of sustainable, diverse and equitable research environments.The critical factor in the success of Foresighters will be our ability to attract Early-Stage Researchers with exceptional potential, from a wide range of academic backgrounds. To enable this, we are offering highly attractive financial package (including a generous family allowance when eligible), supported by 42-month employment contracts with full staff benefits. Coupled with the world leading training programme for skills in research, employability and Futures Thinking, we are confident that Foresighters will nurture incredible long term career opportunities.
If these opportunities interest you, please register for one of Information Webinars here.
You can find more information on how to apply here, and please take account of the key eligibility criteria that are necessary for successful applications.
If you have any questions on the programme, potential research projects or the recruitment process, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
