In a major new collaboration strengthening the connection between environmental wellbeing and public health, the University of Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry has partnered with The King’s Foundation to launch a pioneering doctoral scholarship programme. Hosted by Kellogg College, this initiative aims to deepen scientific understanding of how nature influences mental and physical health — a subject of growing global importance.
Author: Dr Niaz Chowdhury (LinkedIn)
Designation: Lecturer (Computer Science)
Affiliation: Ulster University, Birmingham, UK
A Vision Inspired by King Charles III’s Lifelong Commitment
His Majesty King Charles III has spent decades advocating for the vital role of nature in human flourishing. This scholarship programme builds directly on that vision, supporting evidence-based research into how natural environments contribute to wellbeing, community resilience, and sustainable living.
Through this new partnership, researchers will examine how meaningful contact with nature can be better integrated into modern life, especially in rapidly urbanising communities.
Up to Three DPhil Scholarships Between 2026 and 2029
The King’s Foundation Oxford DPhil Scholarships in Nature, Health and Wellbeing will support up to three doctoral students at Kellogg College from 2026 to 2029. These scholarships are designed to fill a critical global knowledge gap around nature-based approaches to public health.
Each scholarship provides:
- Full tuition fees (at the home student rate)
- College fees
- A generous stipend of at least £20,000 per year
- Funding for up to three years
This level of support enables scholars to dedicate themselves fully to their research without financial pressure.
Advancing the Evidence Base for Healthy, Sustainable Living
The scholarships will fund research that explores:
- How access to green and blue spaces affects mental and physical health
- Nature-based interventions that can improve wellbeing
- How urban planning and community design can incorporate nature effectively
- Behavioural and psychological drivers of sustainable lifestyles
By combining insights from psychiatry, psychology, environmental science, public health, and community design, the programme aims to generate practical recommendations that can influence policy and improve lives worldwide.
Kellogg College: A Hub for Applied, Interdisciplinary Research
Kellogg College provides an ideal environment for this initiative, known for its commitment to research with real-world impact and for fostering a diverse, global academic community. Scholars will benefit from both Oxford’s world-leading research expertise and engagement with The King’s Foundation’s sustainability projects.
Professor Kam Bhui, from the Department of Psychiatry, emphasised that this partnership strengthens Oxford’s mission to address urgent societal challenges through scientific rigour and community-centred innovation.
A Transformational Opportunity for Future Leaders in Mental and Environmental Health
As the world faces rising mental health needs, climate-related pressures, and rapid urbanisation, understanding how nature supports human health has never been more essential. These scholarships represent a timely investment in the next generation of researchers who will help shape healthier, more sustainable communities.
The programme is expected to attract applicants with interests spanning mental health science, environmental psychology, sustainability, public health, and community wellbeing.
For official information: Click here
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