Research Assistant Internship Scheme

Research Assistant Internships allow LISS-funded PhD Students to work as a Research Assistant with an academic (other than their immediate supervisor) based at King’s, Queen Mary, or Imperial. The internships are funded through LISS DTP in the form of a stipend extension for up to 3-months (or part-time equivalent).

These internships provide several benefits such as the opportunity to work with a larger team of researchers, practice in academic writing, training in research methods, networking and dissemination, collaboration with external partners, and potential for publication.

Research Assistant Internship Funding:

• DTP1 Students (funding commenced before October 2024): Internships are optional. If approved, stipend funding is extended for the duration of the internship (up to 3-months). Please note that LISS DTP can fund 4 Research Assistant Internships for DTP1 students this academic year.
• DTP2 Students (funding commenced after October 2024): A 3-month (13-week) placement is required during the PhD. This is included in the standard 3.5-year funding period. If not completed, funding is reduced to 3.25 years. There are no limits to the number of Research Assistant Internships that can be funded for DTP2 studentsthis academic year.
• PhD Students from Other ESRC-funded DTPs may have the opportunity to apply for the LISS DTP RA Internship projects at a later stage, if these positions have not already been taken up by LISS-funded students (the website will be updated to reflect this). Students from other ESRC-funded DTPs should first confirm with their own DTP that participation is permitted, and follow any relevant guidance on applying for approval and funding for internships or placements.
• Please note: Research Assistant Internships must not be undertaken with the student’s supervisory team and/or home department.

• LISS DTP-funded students should apply to RA Internship projects by 4th June 2026, directly to RA Internship Academic Lead (Project Supervisor) with your CV and a brief cover letter, outlining your interest and suitability. Please contact the Project Supervisor in advance of submitting your application with any queries.
• If selected by the project supervisor, then LISS DTP students must then complete the LISS DTP Placement /Internship Application form.
• This ensures that there is approval of PhD supervisor, and the necessary information is obtained to extend funding (for DTP1 students) or confirm placement requirement fulfilled (for DTP2 students), and to fulfil ESRC reporting obligations.
• LISS DTP approval must be given before the RA internship can commence.

RA Internships will commence from late June 2026. Please note that at the end of the internship, students will be required to complete an internship report.

Contact the LISS DTP Team at liss-dtp@kcl.ac.uk for any questions about the Research Assisstant Internship Scheme.