If you’re looking for a UK PhD that combines doctoral research with paid teaching experience, this PhD Studentship with a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) role at Birkbeck, University of London is a standout option.
It’s structured as a four-year pathway where you will be registered as a full-time PhD student while supporting teaching during term time as a GTA. For international students, it offers something many funded routes don’t: a flexible research direction, strong academic training, and the chance to build a credible teaching portfolio alongside your doctorate.
Author: Dr Niaz Chowdhury (LinkedIn)
Designation: Lecturer (Computer Science)
Affiliation: Ulster University (Birmingham), UK
Why this opportunity stands out
1) A PhD route that is genuinely flexible
Unlike many PhD adverts that require you to join a narrowly-defined project, this opportunity gives you room to propose your own direction within the broad academic home of Computing and Mathematical Sciences.
Birkbeck highlights a wide range of possible topics and supervision areas, meaning you can shape a project around your strengths and future career goals — whether that’s academia, research labs, or industry.
Indicative areas include:
- Software Engineering, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models
- Graph Databases, Data Modelling, Process Modelling
- Cryptography and information security
- AI in Finance
- Network algorithms, probability theory, and related mathematical approaches
(The list is indicative rather than exclusive, which is another sign of flexibility.)
2) Fees waived while you complete a full-time PhD
One of the most important features is that your PhD registration fees are waived for the period of employment — a major cost barrier removed.
For international students who are comparing UK options, “fees covered” often makes the difference between a dream and a realistic plan.
3) Paid GTA role: you graduate with experience, not just a thesis
This is not “research-only”. Alongside your doctoral work, you’ll gain practical experience supporting teaching — a huge advantage if you want to build an academic career.
As a GTA, you may be involved in:
- Supporting seminars and/or online teaching
- Contributing to marking and assessment support
- Helping with administration tied to programme delivery
That combination matters: many PhD graduates finish with strong research output but limited classroom experience. This pathway helps you build both.
4) A strong base in London with an academic identity
Birkbeck is known for its research-active departments and London location, offering access to:
- Academic networks and seminars
- Industry and research communities
- A broad postgraduate ecosystem across the city
For international students, this kind of environment can be especially valuable for building connections that lead to post-PhD opportunities.
Who this is suited for
This opportunity is likely to suit you if you:
- Have (or expect to have) a good first degree or a Master’s in a relevant discipline (e.g., computer science, mathematics, statistics)
- Can demonstrate research potential and readiness to work at doctoral level
- Have practical competence in areas like Python and SQL, and understand key concepts in data/information systems
- Are comfortable supporting teaching and contributing to student learning
Key dates to note
- Application deadline: Friday 1 May 2026
- Interview date: Monday 25 May 2026
- Start date: 1 July (four-year fixed-term pathway)
How to apply (important: it’s a two-step process)
Birkbeck requires two separate applications:
- PhD application (full-time)
You’ll submit your application for the relevant PhD route (e.g., Computer Science & Information Systems or Mathematics & Statistics), including an original research proposal. - GTA job application
You must also apply for the Graduate Teaching Assistant role via this “Apply” link.
If you only complete one of these, you won’t be fully considered for the combined opportunity.
The School is particularly interested in supervising research that aligns with the work of the research groups and centres. A non-exclusive list of topics and supervisors is included below. Applicants who wish to pursue a PhD in a different field will also be considered.
Mathematical Analysis of Reconstruction Error for Off-Shore Wind Measurement Systems
Software Engineering, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models
Static Program analysis and verification, termination analysis, term rewriting
Graph Databases, Data Modelling, Process Modelling
Combinatorial aspects of cryptography and information security
AI in Finance: new models and data streams
Probability theory: Interacting particle systems
Designing network algorithms founded on graph theory
Extraction of Rules and Specifications from Temporal Data
Novel diffusion model learning algorithms for synthetic DNA sequence design
Please note that separate applications will be required:
Full-time PhD application with accompanying research proposal for the PhD post for either:
Computer Science and Information Systems
Access the job application form for the graduate teaching assistant post via this ‘Apply‘ link.
Tips to strengthen your application (international-student friendly)
- Write a proposal that feels “ready”. Clear research question, method, and feasible 3–4 year plan.
- Show evidence of technical competence. Mention projects, dissertations, GitHub, publications, or professional work.
- Demonstrate teaching potential. Even small experiences count: mentoring, tutoring, lab support, peer instruction.
- Align with the department’s themes. Pick a direction that fits naturally with the School’s strengths.
Final thought
A PhD that offers flexibility in research direction, fees waived, and real teaching experience is a rare and valuable combination — especially in a London-based institution where academic and professional networks are within reach.
If you’re an international student looking for a UK PhD that helps you graduate with both research credibility and teaching experience, this is a strong opportunity to prioritise.
