Application FAQs

The next application deadline will be 28th March, 4pm GMT.
Applications can be made directly through our online Application Form.

We are recruiting 12 students to take part in fully funded PhD research training in data visualization at The University of Warwick, and City St George’s, University of London. Successful applicants in this round will begin their studies in October 2025. Enquiries from those with a love of data and a desire to use it well are encouraged.

We welcome applications from all, and especially from people whose perspectives and experiences are currently under-represented in data visualization. This includes those who identify as one or more of the following: those who are female, those from Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, and those from low-income backgrounds or areas experiencing high levels of deprivation. We are conscious that there are different ways of describing such under-representation, and that no description will work for every individual: the wording we use here is intended to invite and include.

This is a dynamic WebSite and a live FAQ: we are logging Frequently Asked Questions as we receive them and adding answers based on questions we receive. If you can't find an answer to your question here, email info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk for more details.

What is Data Visualization?

Visualization involves creating graphics that show complex phenomena in ways that help people understand them. This is critical to problem solving in the 21st century: connecting digital data with human cognition in powerful ways.

Evolving technology and approaches in science mean that data visualization has great potential for wide impact in terms of understanding environment and society, and communicating some of the complexities of challenging phenomena in interpretable forms.

You can find a wide range of examples of Data Visualization on the Information is Beautiful Awards webpages.

What is the DIVERSE CDT?

DIVERSE CDT is:

• an EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Diversity in Data Visualization.
• a collaboration between City St George's and the University of Warwick, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
• an interdisciplinary team of world-leading researchers with expertise spanning data visualization, human-computer interaction design, social justice and equity, and innovation creativity and leadership.
• offering up to 12 fully funded PhD studentships (a four-year course) each year for the next five years to train new leaders in data visualization.
• innovative, backed by a range of partners, and run by institutions that have proven capability and research quality.

Where might I fit into this?

Whether or not you ‘fit’ existing expectations of who a data visualization expert is - including your own - you can bring new knowledge, perspectives, priorities, causes and ideas to the field, to apply and inform data visualization.
Through the DIVERSE CDT you have the opportunity to work on and advocate for data-related problems and topics important to you.
Each PhD studentship is four-years (full-time), enabling you to work on a diversity of projects with a range of organisations as you develop a digital thesis.

Why does Diversity in Data Visualization matter?

Data visualization needs people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, with a whole range of experiences, perspectives, ideas and kowledge to develop the field.

Whether or not you ‘fit’ existing expectations of who a data visualization expert is you can bring new knowledge, perspectives, priorities, causes and ideas to the field, to apply and inform data visualization.

Science, industry and society need people with advanced data visualization capabilities. The EPSRC has funded DIVERSE CDT to address this skills gap.

What is a PhD?

• A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, represents one of the highest levels of academic achievement.
• It is a research degree: research involves knowing how to answer challenging questions reliably and understanding the quality of your answers and where they can be applied.
• Typically, PhDs involve working on a single specialist project over the course of 3-4 years. The DIVERSE CDT is a four-year programme for full-time students.
• Earning this distinguished qualification grants you the title of 'Doctor' and unlocks opportunities for senior professional positions.
• PhD holders often build impactful careers as researchers, lecturers, or professors, and their expertise is equally valued in industry, government, and non-profit sectors, and associated with advanced roles.
• Specialising in Data Visualization for your PhD sets you apart as a leading expert in this field, significantly enhancing your career prospects and professional recognition in a growing area.

What would PhD study with the DIVERSE CDT involve?

• Training in data analysis, visual design, user experience and the technologies.
• Developing research methods that enable understanding and use of data visualization in diverse contexts.
• Participation in 3-6 month internships with academic and industrial partners across public, private and not-for-profit sectors.
• Structured learning, workshops, and mentorship tailored around your needs and interests.
• Being part of a diverse and active cohort – working and learning together as you create data visualizations and undertake research.
• Producing an interactive portfolio of research using a digital notebook, which replaces the traditional PhD 'thesis' on this programme.
• Attending international conferences and residential retreats to discuss progress and ideas with researchers and project partners.
• Working with a mentor to identify your interests and learning needs, subject experts and a research scientist to support you.

How would the DIVERSE CDT PhD programme typically be structured?

On a full-time basis, and in very broad terms:

• Year 1: Training in research methods, data visualization techniques and technologies, across diverse social contexts.

• Years 2 and 3: Industry and academic placements, lab exchange visits, developing linked research projects with bespoke supervision

• Year 4: Refining a critical lens that extends across your individual and collaborative work to date, working towards submission of the digital thesis via digital notebook.

• Full-time students are expected to spend an average of 35 hours a week working towards their PhD, and to be available for in-person collaboration and placements during the working week.

• All years will include cohort collaboration and engagement across the DIVERSE CDT, and reflection on your projects and progress via the digital notebook.

Why does the DIVERSE CDT differ from other PhD Programmes?

• Data visualization is stronger if people from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of interests are involved in developing the field.
• You may not think that this is for you – but we want to make it for you and will work with you to ensure you get the most from the opportunity, and work towards a valuable PhD.
• Whether or not you ‘fit’ existing expectations of who a data visualization expert is - including your own - you can bring new knowledge, perspectives, priorities, causes and ideas to the field, to apply and inform data visualization.
• Through the DIVERSE CDT, you will have the opportunity to work on and advocate for data-related problems and topics important to you.

Who is behind the DIVERSE CDT?

We are a multidisciplinary team of academics and research professionals based at City St George's and the University of Warwick who are committed to developing future leaders in data visualization to unlock the potential of understanding the world in new ways. The academic team includes:

• Professor Jason Dykes (Co-Director)
• Professor Stephanie Wilson (Co-Director)
• Professor Cagatay Turkay (Co-Director)
• Dr Marjahan Begum
• Professor Rachel Cohen
• Dr Sara Jones
• Dr Greg McInerny
• Professor Jo Wood

This team also includes:

• Dr Nicola Kirkby, (Manager DIVERSE CDT) - who will be your first point of contact via info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk
• Mike Drummond, (Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Manager, City St George's)
• Ian Gibbs (Head of Academic Enterprise, City St George's)

Where would I be studying?

• We have funded places available to study either with City St George's in London or with the University of Warwick in Coventry.
• Distance learning is not available via the DIVERSE CDT: this is an in-person programme, including some online elements, with collaborative work core to the training.
• You would also participate in 3-6 month internships with academic and industrial partners across public, private and not-for-profit sectors.
• Internships will be across the UK, and international lab visits across the globe, fully funded by the CDT. We will work with you to choose destinations that suit you and find alternatives if none do.

Who would I be working with/who would supervise me?

This PhD is different: you will have time when studying for PhD via the DIVERSE CDT to get to know potential academic supervisors, and will confirm a supervision team at the end of your first full-time year.

• Beyond the academic team listed above, there are many specialists you will have opportunities with work with at City St George's and the University of Warwick.

• You will also be supported in your studies by a dedicated Research Scientist with expertise in data visualization and a Partnerships Manager who can connect you with placement opportunities and support you during studentships with out partners.

What do you mean by 'fully funded'?

• A funded position to study for a PhD with the DIVERSE CDT, the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Diversity in Data Visualization
• All fees paid (UK students) and a maintenance grant (also known as a stipend) of £23,158. per year for 4 years
• A top spec laptop for the duration of your studies, cutting edge tech and our amazing DataVis labs
• Fully funded exchange visit to a top international research lab – we work with partner labs in the US, Canada, Australia and Europe
• 3-6 month internships with academic and industrial partners across public, private and not-for-profit sectors (you'll continue to receive your maintenance grant during these)
• Eligibility (full-time students) for student across a range of services and products, including rail cards, council tax, and many retailers.
• Access to discretionary hardship funding through your University should your financial situation change during your degree.
• 30 days' annual leave, and other benefits including parental and sick leave as outlined by the UKRI.

Who is eligible for DIVERSE CDT Studentships?

Final-Year Undergraduates and Graduates

• We welcome applications from final-year undergraduates and people who have completed an undergraduate degree, and this does not need to be in a technical subject.
• If you have an undergraduate degree involving some work with data in any programme of study – whether Geography, Sociology, Health Sciences, Business, Politics, Psychology, Computer Science, or other – and if you are excited to develop an understanding of how data are represented and understood in these or other disciplinary contexts then you are a good fit for this programme.
• If you are currently enrolled on another degree programme, you would need to complete this before beginning a DIVERSE CDT studentship.

Masters Students and Graduates

• We welcome applications from people who have completed or are completing a taught postgraduate qualification that involves some work with data who are interested in visualization. Whether or not you have previously completed an undergraduate degree, we are interested in hearing from you.
• If you are currently enrolled on another degree programme, you would need to complete this before beginning a DIVERSE CDT studentship.

Professionals Without a Degree Qualification

• We consider applications on a case-by-case basis, including from people who have built substantial experience in working with data and interest in visualization outside of higher education. Please get in touch with us via info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk if you're interested in applying and aren't sure whether your experience aligns with what we're looking for.

International Applicants

• Due to the conditions of our funding, places are only available for UK (Home) applicants for this round.
• We are building capacity and seeking funding for Overseas PhDs for future cohorts. If you are an overseas applicant in receipt of external funding, please contact info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk for more information.

Is there an option to study part-time?

• Places for part-time study are more limited in number than those available for full-time study. Please reach out to info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk if you would like to discuss the possibility of joining the DIVERSE CDT part-time to fit with your circumstances.
• If you currently work in data visualization and would like to complete a PhD that aligns with your professional work, please email info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk to discuss the possibility of your employer sponsoring you for a DIVERSE CDT Studentship.

I have questions about the DIVERSE CDT application process

What are the different stages of the application?

1. Complete an application to be considered for a fully funded DIVERSE CDT studentship
2. If your application is shortlisted:

• You will be invited to an interview with the DIVERSE CDT. This is an opportunity to build on your answers on this form, explore data visualization in more detail, and for us to get to know one another better.
• We will provide as much notice as possible about arrangements for interview, including guidance about what to expect and how to prepare.

3. If you are nominated for funding by the DIVERSE CDT, you will then be asked to apply formally for a place to study for a PhD at either City St George's or the University of Warwick. The DIVERSE CDT team will support you in completing this application.
4. Once your place on the PhD programme is confirmed, we will look forward to welcoming you in October 2025.

If your application is not successful will get in touch as soon as we can to let you know. If you were interviewed we can share feedback with you.

How much experience in Data Visualization are you looking for?

• We are looking to recruit new PhD students who are fascinated by the possibilities of data visualization, and recognise that applicants will have had varying opportunities to build experience so far. The first year of this programme provides substantial training in data visualization. At this stage, we're most interested in how you think, how you work, and what drives you.

I don't have an image I can provide for question 1B on the form. What should I do?

• An image is not required to complete your application. We recognise that people have strengths in different areas, and that we might not be able to gauge everyone's full potential through a written application form. The option to upload an image provides visual thinkers with an opportunity to demonstrate this skill.

Do I need to include referees or transcripts at this stage?

• You do not need to share transcripts, or the names of referees to apply to be considered for funding.
• If you are successful supporting evidence will be requested and verified when you submit an application to the PhD in Data Visualization programme at City St George's or Warwick. We will support you in making this application.

What should I do if I use assistive technology and cannot access the online form?

• Please contact nicola.kirkby@city.ac.uk who will support you by providing an alternative format.

How do I navigate the form? Can I go back and look at my answers?

• You can toggle backwards and forwards through the application form. We would recommend that you draft your answers in a separate document and add them onto the form once you are happy with your answers. We have PDF and Word versions of the form that you can use when drafting.

I am ready to submit my form: what should I expect?

• Once you have completed the form you will see a message confirming this.
• You will have an opportunity to download a copy of your submission. We recommend that you do this for later reference as you may wish to build on these answers if invited to interview.
• You will also receive an email from us confirming that we have received your application. If you don't receive this (and it isn't in your spam folder), please email info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk.

I have submitted my form and noticed an error. What can I do?

• You can contact info@diverse-cdt.ac.uk for support. You can also withdraw your application and submit it for a later round. We will consider applications in March, May, and June (subject to availability).

---

---