24 Fully Funded PhD Research Opportunities in AI, Cancer Biology, Engineering, Mathematics & Health Sciences at Maynooth University Ireland (2026)

International students seeking fully funded PhD opportunities in Europe now have an exciting chance to apply for multiple doctoral scholarships at Maynooth University, Ireland.

Overview of the Projects: The Faculty of Science & Engineering at Maynooth University has launched the prestigious ARDÚ Doctoral Scholarship Scheme 2026, supporting cutting-edge research across Artificial Intelligence, Health & Wellbeing, Sustainability, Climate Change, Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, Mathematics, Engineering, and Data Science. The university plans to support 24 PhD researchers through this competitive scholarship programme.

Scholarship Areas
The PhD projects are available across several departments and research institutes including:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Electronic Engineering
• Mathematics & Statistics
• Psychology
• Sport Science & Nutrition
• AI Driven Healthcare

Featured PhD Research Topics
Some of the available fully funded projects include:

Biology & Health Sciences
• Antifungal Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus
• Crop resilience against climate change using fungal symbionts
• Immune landscape in metabolic liver disease
• Complement signaling in rectal cancer
• Lung adenocarcinoma targeted chemotherapy

Artificial Intelligence & Computer Science
• AI-driven learning and education systems
• Large Language Models (LLMs)Medical report generation using multimodal
• AI Music Information Retrieval for Irish Traditional Music
• Cyber Digital Twins for Agri-food Supply Chains

Engineering & Technology
• Brain stimulation and biomedical engineering
• Reliability in LEO satellite-enabled 6G systems
• Self-sensing soft robotic structures

Mathematics & Physics
• Intermediate Ricci curvature lower bounds
• Vertex operator algebras and superconformal field theories

Psychology & Human Behaviour
• Mental health support among young adults
• Language and Alzheimer’s Disease
• Policy recognition and wellbeing research
• Sports & Community Health
• Intellectual disability sport development
• Community rehabilitation for COPD and heart failure patients

Scholarship Benefits
The award is fully funded PhD for up to four years, commencing October 2026.Successful candidates will receive:
• Student stipend: €25,000 per annum.
• University tuition fee support
• Funded research training
• Access to world-class laboratories and research groups
• International research environment
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration

Eligibility Criteria
• Applicants are generally expected to have:
• A Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree relevant to the research area
• Strong academic background
• Interest in research and scientific innovation
• English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required for international students)
• Specific requirements vary depending on the project and supervisor.

Application Deadlines
Different projects have different deadlines ranging from end of May to early July. Check the link below. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Why Study at Maynooth University?
Located in Ireland, Maynooth University is known for strong research performance, international collaborations, and supportive doctoral training. The ARDÚ programme particularly focuses on solving real-world challenges through interdisciplinary research. Popular research strengths include: Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Research, Cancer Biology, Sustainability, Climate Science, Mathematics, Digital Transformation etc.

How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the official scholarship website in the link below. Select a research project of interest. Contact the listed supervisor if required. Prepare academic documents and research-related materials. Submit the online application before the deadline

Final Thoughts
This is an excellent opportunity for students looking for fully funded PhD positions in Ireland in 2026. With research topics spanning AI, cancer biology, engineering, psychology, and sustainability, the ARDÚ Scholarships provide a strong platform for academic and professional growth. Students interested in European doctoral opportunities should definitely consider applying.