Bangor University has announced the availability of a further 70 new research Scholarships for the academic year 2010/11. This comprises the second year of the University's five year post-graduate expansion programme; part of their 125th Anniversary celebrations.

The University is offering 30 Anniversary Research Scholarships and 40 ESF supported Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarships (KESS).

"A strong postgraduate community is an essential element of any international research-led university. As well as contributing to the further growth of our already vibrant postgraduate community, the programme extends the University's research capacity and our award winning work with businesses," said Professor Merfyn Jones, the University's Vice-Chancellor.

"The Scholarship schemes offer opportunities to the very best students, nationally and internationally, to work with the University's leading academics and rising stars and forms part of our strategy to grow research excellence and research capacity," said Prof Hilary Lappin-Scott, the University's Pro Vice Chancellor for Research & Enterprise.

The Anniversary Scholarships are flagship awards comprising three year PhD studentships covering fees and providing an annual stipend and research allowance, and three year PhD bursaries that provide an annual stipend. The University is inviting applications from outstanding UK/EU and International students. These can be be made on-line via the Univeristy's website.

The KESS programme provides MRes and PhD Scholarships, which are undertaken collaboratively with businesses. Research is focussed on the priority sectors for the Welsh Economy. Each KESS scholarship provides an annual stipend and research allowance. University fees are waived.

KESS is a pan-Wales higher-level skills initiative led by Bangor University on behalf of the higher education sector. The programme aims to deliver the R&D skills needed to grow the knowledge economy. It is part-funded by the Welsh Assembly Government's European Social Fund (ESF) Convergence programme for West Wales and the Valleys.

Each KESS scholar undertakes an integrated research, innovation and business skills training programme leading to a Postgraduate Skills Development Award. Additionally, KESS has been recognised as being unique in how it utilises ESF support to deliver a higher-level skills development programme jointly with employers.

Professor Merfyn Jones said: "KESS is an outstanding opportunity for us to partner our skills with regional companies of all sizes to create new knowledge through collaborative research and maximise our contribution to the economy."

（www.eduwo.com, Anna）