School of Medicine
A female postgraduate student using immunohistochemistry and western blot

Rita Harpin Legacy Funding Award

A funding opportunity for MSc Oncology and MSc Cancer Immunology and Biotechnology.

The School of Medicine is proud to announce the continuation of a very special legacy established by alumna Rita Harpin, who studied Education at Nottingham in 1974.

Rita was married to Bill Harpin, a former university staff member who tragically lost his battle with cancer in 2014. Motivated by her personal experiences and commitment to cancer research, Rita set up The Harpin Scholarships for Cancer Studies in 2015 to support students pursuing Masters-level cancer-related courses. Although scholarship payments were paused in 2016 when Rita required residential care, her vision has continued to inspire us. Following Rita’s passing in November 2023, she has left the university a legacy to maintain and revive the original scholarship she so passionately established.

This legacy funding is now available to support eligible students who are facing financial challenges to undertake our MSc Oncology or MSc Cancer Immunology and Biotechnology courses. We invite you to apply and become part of a tradition dedicated to advancing cancer research and education.

Successful applicants will receive a total of £12,500 to support their studies. This funding will be provided in two instalments to assist with tuition fees, living expenses, or other educational costs.

Eligibility criteria

  • Applicants must hold a conditional or unconditional offer to study the MSc Oncology or MSc Cancer Immunology and Biotechnology at the University of Nottingham.
  • This scholarship is specifically targeted at students who are experiencing financial hardship.
  • Both home and international students can apply.

Application process

  • Applicants must complete the application form by 8am (BST) on Monday 23 June 2025.
  • Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview in July 2025.
  • Successful applicants will be notified via email.

Contact us

If you have any queries regarding the funding, please contact us.

Apply for the Rita Harpin Legacy Funding Award

School of Medicine

University of Nottingham
Medical School
Nottingham, NG7 2UH

Contacts: Call 0115 823 0031 ext.30031 or please see our 'contact us' page for further details