What is it?
CASE studentships (formerly known as 'Collaborative Awards) offer an invaluable opportunity for Ph.D. students to undertake a collaborative research project with a partner from the public, private or 3rd sector. The scheme can strengthen the strategic relationship between the Ph.D. researcher/university and the collaborating institution by providing an opportunity to establish or enhance collaborative research project led by the Ph.D. researcher of interest to the two parties.
Specifics
A collaborative Ph.D. research project is undertaken to address a specific research need or problem of interest to the business; framed as the basis for a doctoral study over 3-4 years. Not just for Business.
Timelines
Long 36+ months. Business must be willing to commit to the length of the programme.
Costs
A contribution is expected towards the cost of the Ph.D. This varies according to the specification of individual calls.
Benefits
Joint supervision to the Ph.D. student by the university/ organization in a unique way that can broaden the researcher’s perspective in terms of the engagement and impact of their research. The collaborative nature can help those involved develop their awareness, skills, and expertise. During the collaboration, the researcher may be partially based in the host organization to gain a wider understanding of applied research or policy development that will aid both parties in mutually beneficial ways.
Suitable for which Businesses?
Business of any size. An important aspect of a Ph.D. is having the personnel to commit to a longer collaborative project. Where there is scope to build a wider collaboration around a Ph.D. researcher this may lead to wider benefits for the business with the development of new knowledge, research, and innovation.
How do you engage?
There are often calls which can promote engagement and collaboration with researchers and academics from a broad range of academic departments. Articulate the nature of the research problem this provides a basis for discussion with the University and academics both in terms of the business's need and the capability of the University to deliver within the timeframe. Where the business is already aware of academics working in this area they can contact them directly. Where this is not the case then the first point of contact is the specific department that is of relevance. There is an associated application process by universities, doctoral training centres and/or research councils.