Enabling student success: Writing Up Bursary

Widening opportunity and participation is at the heart of Green Templeton College’s (GTC) priorities. Supporting students through the full cost of study ensures that talented individuals can complete their degrees without financial barriers. This is true whether through learning and travel grants, financial assistance schemes or provision of affordable accommodation. 

A key part of this support is the Writing Up Bursary, which can provide crucial financial assistance to some students in the final stages of their DPhil. For recipients like Amy Booth, Josefina Orliacq, and Xijia You, this bursary has been transformative, allowing them to dedicate themselves fully to their research and lessen the financial strain.

Testimonials

Amy Booth (DPhil Translational Health Sciences, 2021)

‘My research focuses on decarbonising the pharmaceutical supply chain, addressing the urgent need to reduce healthcare’s environmental impact. My initial funding only covered three years of my DPhil, leaving my final year unfunded. Thanks to the Writing Up Bursary, I was able to focus entirely on completing my thesis without the financial pressure of self-funding. 

‘Beyond this bursary, GTC has provided a vibrant academic community, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and personal growth. I hope the college continues to offer this vital support, ensuring that future students can navigate the final stages of their research. To the donors who make this possible – thank you. Your generosity has made a profound difference.’ 

Looking ahead, Amy plans to submit her thesis in June 2025 and complete her viva in August or September. She has secured a potential postdoctoral role in the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences and will be involved in a project on solarising hospitals (ie powered by solar energy) in Africa. Her ultimate goal is to build a portfolio career at the intersection of climate change and health, blending academia, policymaking, consulting, and industry work.

Josefina Orliacq (DPhil Population Health, 2020)

‘As my three-year funding scholarship came to an end, the Writing Up Bursary enabled me to extend my thesis-writing time by an additional term and complete my studies without financial constraints. I am deeply grateful to my supervisors for their support and to the donors at GTC whose generosity made this possible. Your contributions truly make a difference, and I hope future students can continue to benefit as I have.’ 

Xijia You (DPhil Sociology, 2021)

‘I recently passed my confirmation of status, marking my formal entry into the final phase of my DPhil. Without the Writing Up Bursary, I would have had to juggle three jobs to afford living in Oxford, which would have severely compromised my academic progress. The financial support allowed me to focus fully on my research and maintain the momentum needed to reach this critical milestone. 

‘The final stage of a doctorate requires intense dedication, and having this bursary meant I could work without constant anxiety about meeting basic living expenses. I am incredibly grateful to GTC and its donors – your generosity has had a tangible impact on my academic journey. I hope to pay this kindness forward in the future.’ 

Xijia plans to submit her thesis by the end of June 2025 and graduate by the end of the calendar year. She aspires to continue in academia and contribute further to research in her field. 

Making a Difference

These stories highlight the profound impact that donor support has on Green Templeton students. The Writing Up Bursary is not just financial assistance – it is an investment in the next generation of researchers tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

To those who give to Green Templeton College: thank you. Your generosity enables students to complete their studies and go on to shape the future in health, sustainability, and much more. 

Find out more giving towards Writing Up Bursaries or enhancing other forms of student support.