Stellenbosch University invites eligible candidates to apply for the Masters and PhD Scholarships 2027.
Scholarship Application Closing Date: 16 June 2026
Scholarship Location: Stellenbosch University, Western Cape, South Africa
Stellenbosch University Masters and PhD Scholarships 2027
Applications are open for Masters and PhD scholarships for 2027 under the project titled “The Use and Potential for AI in Transformations to Sustainability.”
The scholarship is aimed at motivated candidates with a strong academic background and an interest in linking sustainability transformations with the social implications of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
Successful candidates will be based mainly in Stellenbosch for the duration of their studies.
Research Theme
The research project focuses on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in supporting or challenging transformations towards sustainability.
The project recognises that global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food and water insecurity, inequality and political instability require deep and transformative change.
AI has the potential to support sustainability through improved decision-making, data analysis, scientific development and automation. However, it also presents risks such as algorithmic bias, unethical data use, surveillance, high energy demands and unequal access to AI infrastructure, especially in the Global South.
Who Should Apply?
The scholarship is suitable for candidates at either Masters or PhD level who have a strong interest in:
Artificial intelligence.
Sustainability transformations.
Digital technologies.
Social change.
Climate change and environmental challenges.
Equity and development.
Interdisciplinary research.
Applicants should be able to think critically and systemically, work across disciplinary boundaries and participate in interdisciplinary research teams.
Supervision and Academic Home
The successful candidate will be co-supervised by:
Dr Lloyd Hill from the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology.
Professor Reinette “Oonsie” Biggs from the Centre for Sustainability Transitions.
Successful candidates will be active members of the intellectual communities of both the Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST) and the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology.
Candidates may choose which of these departments they want to register with.
About the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology
The Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology at Stellenbosch University is a leading centre for social research and teaching in South Africa.
The department has a strong tradition of interdisciplinary work and explores major global and social issues. It also has established research on sustainability and an emerging research focus on the social implications of generative AI.
About the Centre for Sustainability Transitions
The Centre for Sustainability Transitions at Stellenbosch University is a research hub focused on sustainability science, transdisciplinary research and complexity studies.
The CST supports research on social-ecological change, governance, sustainability transformations and just transitions in Southern Africa and globally.
The centre also hosts a tailored PhD programme that supports interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary sustainability research.
Funding Information
Successful candidates will be funded through an NRF doctoral or masters scholarship linked to the NRF SARChI chair held by Professor Biggs.
The NRF minimum academic requirement for Masters and PhD funding is a 65% average for the preceding degree.
There is no age requirement.
Candidates must be full-time students and may not hold other salaried employment.
Full Cost and Partial Cost Funding
Successful applicants may be funded either through Full Cost of Study (FCS) or Partial Cost of Study (PCS).
Full Cost of Study funding will be awarded to South African citizens and permanent residents only, especially exceptional academic achievers, candidates living with disabilities or financially needy students whose combined household family income is less than or equal to R350 000 per annum.
Partial Cost of Study funding may be awarded to a limited number of international students, as well as South African citizens and permanent residents who could not be funded under FCS but meet other NRF funding requirements.
Tuition and reasonable running and travel expenses may also be covered where possible.
Study Conditions
Successful candidates must be mainly based in Stellenbosch for the duration of their studies.
Successful completion of two non-credit-bearing modules at the CST and defence of a research proposal within the first year will be required to continue with the PhD or Masters in the second year.
Requirements
Applicants must have an Honours degree when applying for a Masters scholarship.
Applicants applying for a PhD scholarship must have a Masters degree.
Applicants must have an average mark of 65% or higher for the preceding degree.
Applicants must have a record of postgraduate study or research in fields relevant to the scope of the call.
The relevance of previous study or research must be explained in the covering letter.
Based on NRF funding guidelines, strong preference will be given to South African nationals and under-represented groups.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
A motivation letter explaining previous academic and work experience, relevant skills, and specific interests and ideas related to the proposed research area.
A detailed CV including academic record, previous work experience, academic publications where applicable, and names of at least two academic referees.
Transcripts of academic qualifications.
Copy of ID or passport.
One example of recent written work, such as a journal article or thesis chapter.
Research Idea Requirement
In the motivation letter, applicants must include a brief description of a potential research idea that connects artificial intelligence and transformation to sustainability.
The proposed idea may focus on AI broadly or on a specific form of AI.
Projects may also consider different scales, including global, national or regional dimensions.
Application Process
Applications will follow a two-step process.
Step 1: Apply to the Department
Interested candidates must email the required documents to:
Email: cstenquiries@sun.ac.za
Use the subject line:
PhD/Masters: AI for Sustainability
Applications must be submitted by 16 June 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on Wednesday afternoon, 24 June 2026. Applicants are advised to keep this afternoon open.
Step 2: Apply to the NRF
Selected candidates from Step 1 will be instructed to apply on the NRF system by 03 July 2026.
They will be required to link their application to Professor Biggs’ SARChI Chair.
Further instructions will be shared with successful candidates after Step 1.
Applicants should note that NRF funding will only be awarded to candidates selected and approved by the NRF during Step 2.
How to apply
Click here to apply for Stellenbosch University Masters and PhD Scholarships 2027.
Applications must be emailed to:
Email: cstenquiries@sun.ac.za
Subject Line: PhD/Masters: AI for Sustainability
Enquiries
For enquiries, contact:
Email: cstenquiries@sun.ac.za
Use the subject line:
Enquiry: AI for Sustainability
Closing Date
The closing date for departmental applications is 16 June 2026.
Selected candidates must then submit the NRF application by 03 July 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Stellenbosch University Masters and PhD Scholarships 2027 offer an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in artificial intelligence, sustainability, digital technologies and social change.
Applicants who meet the requirements should submit their applications before 16 June 2026 and ensure that all required documents are included.