2026 Masters Dissertation Scheme
An opportunity to work on data with leading organisations
Applications are now open for this year’s Masters Dissertation Scheme, managed by Smart Data Research UK’s Geographic Data Service.
The programme connects Masters students and their university supervisors with leading organisations to tackle real-world challenges through data-driven projects.
What’s on offer?
The scheme gives students the chance to:
- Complete their dissertation with co-supervision from a major UK business or organisation
- Apply academic research to live business problems
- Work with retail, consumer, and open datasets to deliver impactful insights
Partner organisations
This year’s sponsors include:
Jollyes Pets, Salad Finance, Geolytix, Registry Trust, Night Time Industries Association, Transport for West Midlands, Podaris, Kainos, Experian, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Mobito, The Social Investment Business, ADHD Action Network, Green Street, CACI Ltd, The Kairo Group.
Who should apply?
If you’re a Masters student looking to gain real-world experience, this scheme offers a valuable insight into the corporate world and the diverse needs of businesses and major organisations.
Applications are welcome from students at universities across the UK, particularly those working in:
- GIS
- Transport
- Data science and related disciplines
Why take part?
- Co-supervision from a UK business or organisation
- £750 sponsorship from business partners, plus travel expenses
- Prizes for the top three dissertations (£750, £500 and £500)
- An all-expenses-paid showcase event to present your research to leading businesses and academics
“I was primarily interested in the opportunity to pursue a project that involved industry collaboration to tackle a real-world business challenge. The scheme offered a unique dual benefit: the ability to contribute to academic research, while gaining valuable insights into the commercial sector. It also provided access to high-quality, proprietary industry data — which is often the most significant obstacle to conducting robust, impactful analysis in an academic setting.”
Chung-En Tsern, participant in the 2025 Masters Dissertation Scheme
Key dates
- Deadline: End of March 2026 (early applications encouraged)
- Project period: Spring and summer 2026
- Some projects may involve on-site work at the sponsor’s head office
Apply now
Discover more about the Masters Dissertation Scheme and apply today.
