The CAMHRA Doctoral Scholarships provide fully funded PhD opportunities at SOAS University of London. The Centre for Anthropology and Mental Health Research in Action (CAMHRA) offers these awards to students who pursue a doctoral degree in Anthropology and Sociology. The program supports rigorous research that applies anthropological insight and ethnographic methods to mental health studies. Moreover, it welcomes scholars who seek to explore mental health across diverse cultural and social contexts.
Background and Purpose
CAMHRA established this scholarship to advance critical research on global mental health challenges. The center promotes relational approaches to healing, care work, environmental distress, lived experience practices, and institutional responses to mental healthcare. Therefore, it selects candidates who propose original and impactful research projects. Through this initiative, CAMHRA strengthens interdisciplinary scholarship and deepens understanding of mental health from anthropological perspectives. In addition, scholars join the Department of Anthropology and Sociology and benefit from specialist workshops and mentorship from leading academics.
CAMHRA Doctoral Scholarships Benefits
The scholarship covers full tuition fees at either Home or Overseas rates. In addition, it provides an annual living stipend of £22,780, aligned with the UKRI stipend rate and inclusive of London weighting. As a result, scholars can focus entirely on their doctoral research without financial pressure. CAMHRA offers five doctoral scholarships under this scheme. Consequently, selected candidates receive both financial security and academic support throughout their PhD journey.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must apply for the MPhil/PhD in Anthropology and Sociology at SOAS. They must propose an original research project that integrates anthropology and mental health. Furthermore, they must meet the academic and English language requirements set by the SOAS Doctoral School. Candidates from any country may apply. In addition, applicants must demonstrate strong academic merit, research potential, and commitment to the field.
CAMHRA Doctoral Scholarships Application Process
Applicants must first submit a complete PhD program application. This application includes a research proposal, academic transcripts, a personal statement, a CV, and a reference letter. They must clearly indicate their interest in the CAMHRA scholarship in their personal statement. After the department reviews and accepts candidates, the CAMHRA selection committee evaluates them. Shortlisted applicants may attend an interview.
Opportunities for Scholars
Scholars gain access to bespoke CAMHRA training and expert supervision. They contribute to innovative research on mental health in global contexts. Moreover, they join a vibrant academic community and build strong research careers in anthropology and mental health.
