PGR international placements
Collaborate internationally, build your networks, and gain skills and practical experience by completing a placement abroad. Develop your understanding of different work contexts and build skills to equip you to achieve your goals.
There are two provisions for PGR international placements:
1. Placements to support your research and that form part of your doctorate
2. Placements not related to your doctoral research but to enable you to develop transferable skills, knowledge and networks outside of academia.
For further information please see Surrey Abroad
Student testimonials
Yongrui Xiao
"I made the most of the extra funding that first and second year PGRs in FEPS get and spent three months in Belgrade. A colleague there helped me find accommodation (near the renowned Red Star Stadium) and I had lots of support with my research.
The academics in Serbia were fantastic. Their enthusiasm not only deepened my understanding of the experiments but also introduced me to the warm-hearted nature of the Serbian people, leaving me with friendships I’ll always cherish. Although it was just a three-month visit, my time there was truly unforgettable. And the research work has formed a major part of my confirmation report and a journal manuscript I’m preparing!"
Mamatha Tomson
“The great thing about receiving a Turing grant is the opportunity I got to explore the world class research experience at SMART Infrastructure Facilities, University of Wollongong. The amount of brilliant people I met from all over the world including the PhD students and the Research fellows; it is compelling and enriching. I would advise anyone considering applying for a Turing grant and doing a placement abroad - I would definitely recommend it! It is a great way to enhance your skill set, gain confidence, improve your cultural awareness, and explore the world!”
Jo Herschan
“I did a one-month placement at the University of São Paulo (USP) to build and test a Household Slow Sand Filter, a particular expertise of the laboratory I visited. The facilities were some of the best in the world for my specific area of research and I worked with equipment I wouldn’t be able to access elsewhere. My colleagues’ expertise was invaluable for my research and I’ve built many professional contacts, even beyond USP as my colleagues were keen to share their networks. I’ve developed different perspectives and ways of working and worked with researchers from different subject areas that I wouldn’t normally work with at Surrey, opening up other interdisciplinary work opportunities.”
Marian Kusi-Appiah
“I travelled to Ghana, for my data collection on solid waste management and to also undertake a survey of disposal sites and solid waste treatment facilities available in the country for my research work.
I am appreciative of this grant and the opportunities I have enjoyed due to this grant. Without a doubt, I would encourage other research students, who intend to embark on such a journey but have financial constraints to apply for the grant and enjoy the full benefits the grant presents.”