Call for Applications: Ph.D. scholarship in Visual Impairment in Malta - Faculty for Social Wellbeing

A. The Scholarship Award

1. 1. The University of Malta (“UM”) is issuing a scholarship, funded through an agreement with the Foundation for Information Technology Accessibility, (“FITA”) and facilitated by the UM Research, Innovation and Development Trust (“RIDT”) for Ph.D. students to work on research projects which shall focus on the rights, perspectives and experiences of children and adolescents with visual impairment and their families.
   2. Applications are now open for the scholarship which will cover research within the Faculty for Social Wellbeing.
   3. Applicants shall be in possession of a Master’s Degree in Disability Studies or a related area, and eligible for Ph.D. studies at UM in terms of the applicable regulations and the faculty’s bye-laws. They shall also be in possession of at least a Grade 5 in Maltese at SEC level or equivalent.
   4. The selected candidate is expected to enroll in Ph.D. studies offered by the Faculty for Social Wellbeing through the Department of Disability Studies. The scholarship award (the “Award”) is for a maximum of three years (full-time studies) and can be taken up as from the approved Ph.D. commencement date, as approved by Senate, based on the recommendations made by the FICS Doctoral Committee, the FICS Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee.
   5. This Award shall cover a basic maintenance allowance of €12,000 per annum for a maximum of 3 years and shall also provide a maximum of €4000 to cover publications and conferences. The Award will not cover the annual enrolment/tuition fee.
   6. International candidates are advised to familiarise themselves with information available online when applying, particularly to the sections concerning travelling to Malta, living costs, visas and e-residence permit conditions and requirements. It is important to note that the Award does not cover all the costs related to studying and living in Malta. Information about fees and English Language requirements can be found online.
   7. Applicants should submit their letter of application by not later than 8 June 2026 by email together with a copy of their curriculum vitae, and a scanned copy of their certificates. The scholarship is intended to support students who have clear goals for their future. Applicants are expected to:
      
      1. Explain how they believe doctoral research will allow them to shape their plans after graduation.
      2. Declare any special attributes and accomplishments that they consider make them deserving of the scholarship.
      3. Submit a proposal with a synopsis of the area of study and the benefits that the Ph.D. research project will bring, together with a breakdown of costs.

      Late applications will not be considered.

   8. The selection procedure will consist of the following:
   1. Scrutiny of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application),
   2. Shortlisting, and
   3. An interview and/or an extended interview.

The selection panel will make its final decision on the successful candidate based on demonstration of academic excellence and research potential.

B. Terms and conditions:

1. 1. The Award will be suspended in the event of a suspension of studies. The Award will also not cover any extension of studies.
   2. The Award may not be held concurrently with another major scholarship or sponsorship award for the same purpose.
   3. The Award-holder may not engage in employment which is likely to interfere with the progress of their research and must seek the permission of Senate - on the recommendation of the F/I/C/S Doctoral Committee, the F/I/C/S Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee - before engaging in any employment.
   4. The Faculty Doctoral Committee must be kept informed about the nature and extent of the Award-holder’s employment commitments throughout their period of study.
   5. The Award-holder shall abide by all applicable regulations and policies of the UM in force during the course of their studies.
   6. The Award-holder will be required to provide progress reports on an annual basis (normally in May each year) to the Faculty Doctoral Committee, as required by University regulations and procedures. At the end of their studies, the Award-holder shall provide a final report, covering what has been achieved.
   7. The Doctoral School requests that the award holder acknowledges the assistance of RIDT and FITA, in any publications arising wholly or partially from the award.
   8. Other relevant regulations and policies of the UM shall apply.

The Doctoral School, May 2026