MSc bursary

Take a look at our bursary for students on our taught postgraduate courses.

Yellow lichen

B.A. Krukoff Fellowship in Tropical African Botanical Systematics

The application process for the bursary for the 2024-25 academic year has now concluded. Our gratitude is extended to everyone who showed interest in this opportunity and took the effort to apply. It's important to highlight that the bursary will be on offer annually, and we warmly encourage you to consider applying in the next academic year (2025-2026). We shall ensure to keep this page updated with all pertinent details regarding the commencement of the application window for 2025-26. Do check in for the latest updates.

We are delighted to announce the availability of a fully funded bursary for one student accepted onto the MSc in Plant and Fungal Taxonomy, Diversity and Conservation for the upcoming academic year.

This bursary is generously sponsored by the Bentham-Moxon Trust B.A. Krukoff Fund, aimed at supporting a student who is eager to concentrate their MSc research project on the botany of Tropical Africa.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, will administer the bursary, providing a comprehensive package that includes a £20,000 stipend. 

This stipend is designed to cover accommodation, subsistence, a daily travel allowance, and all costs associated with the required fieldtrip. 

Additionally, the bursary offers up to £5,000 to cover visa application fees, the UK Healthcare surcharge (as outlined on the UK Government website), and travel expenses to and from the student's hometown or country at the start and end of the course. The Trust will also cover the relevant tuition fees, ensuring the student has full financial support.

Eligibility requirements

  • Applicants must demonstrate their ability to meet the university's entry requirements for the MSc program, securing an unconditional offer by the specified time. Candidates are advised not to apply for a university place on the MSc until the bursary has been awarded.
  • Applicants should have experience in Tropical African systematic botany and a keen interest in systematic botany that aligns with Kew's Accelerated Taxonomy Priority, as  Kew Science Strategy 2021-2025.
  • Candidates must illustrate how they plan to contribute to and impact Tropical African Botany after completing their studies. For the purpose of this bursary, tropical Africa includes countries that are members of the African Union.

Bursary recipient responsibilities

  • Candidates must be eligible to study in the UK, with all applicants encouraged to check UK visa requirements and application processes well in advance. This ensures compliance with all requirements before the course begins in September of the year. More information can be found in the Visas and international student advice - Advice and Counselling Service.
  • Candidates cannot be in receipt of any other bursaries or grants for completion of an MSc in the academic year.

Privacy notice
By sending us this information, you consent to our collection, processing and use of your personal data as set out in our Privacy Policy. 

This bursary represents a remarkable opportunity for students dedicated to advancing the study and conservation of plant and fungal diversity, with a special focus on the rich botanical heritage of Tropical Africa.

Other funding

Please keep checking this page for available MSc bursaries, and visit the websites of our MSc partners, Queen Mary University of London and Royal Holloway, University of London, where further funding opportunities are listed.