Pakistani Scholar Secures €49,000 Erasmus Mundus and £200,000 Cambridge PhD Scholarships to Pursue Materials Science Across Germany, France, and the UK

My name is Maheera Abdul Ghani, and I’m originally from Lahore, Pakistan. I recently completed my PhD in Materials Science and Metallurgy at the University of Cambridge, becoming the first Pakistani woman to do so in this field at the institution. My academic journey began in Lahore with a passion for engineering and physics, and nanotechnology. The curiosity in the field of Materials science inspired me to pursue further education across Europe. My decision to continue studying in this field stemmed from a desire to contribute to cutting-edge material solutions for energy, electronics, and sustainability.

I was awarded an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship by the European Union and completed a double Master's degree in functionalized advanced materials engineering at TU Darmstadt, Germany, and Grenoble INP, France. My work experience includes various research placements in the field of nanomaterials. I recently interned as a market analyst for a semiconductor device company at the Institute for Manufacturing, Cambridge. Currently, I also work as a policy writer for CambridgeZero to understand energy transition initiatives. I aim to leverage scientific expertise in the area of the semiconductor industry and address challenges of energy efficiency and sustainability.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's and Cambridge Ph.D. Scholarships Details

I was awarded the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree (EMJMD) scholarship, which funded my MSc in Functionalized Advanced Materials Engineering. This program was jointly hosted by Technische Universität Darmstadt in Germany and Grenoble INP in France. The scholarship covered full tuition, travel costs, and a monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 per month, making the total award worth over €49,000.

I was later awarded a fully funded scholarship for my PhD at the University of Cambridge, of around 200,000 pounds, which covered full tuition, travel costs, and a monthly stipend!

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, during my undergraduate studies at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, I received several awards, including the Pakistan Tobacco Company Gold Medal, a High Merit Scholarship, and the Highest CGPA Achiever Award.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor of Engineering in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from UET Lahore, where I graduated top of my class with a Gold Medal and the Highest CGPA. My strong academic foundation allowed me to excel in materials-related subjects like nanomaterials, functional materials, and materials processing, which directly prepared me for advanced interdisciplinary programs like the Erasmus Mundus MSc and later my PhD at Cambridge.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Cambridge and Other Institutions?

I began by researching programs in materials science with international exposure, which aligned with my scientific interests. I created a spreadsheet to compare curriculum, faculty profiles, and research opportunities. I refined my personal statement through several drafts and ensured my application aligned with both academic excellence, my personal interests, and social impact.

Standardized Test Scores and Preparation

I took the TOEFL for language proficiency and scored 110/120 overall. For preparation, I practiced using the TOEFL books and mock speaking sessions available free online. Since Erasmus programs didn't require the GRE at the time, I focused more on a strong academic portfolio, research experience, and recommendation letters.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

I reviewed the selection criteria for Erasmus Mundus carefully. I tailored my statement of purpose to reflect academic achievements, leadership experience, and my vision for using materials science to solve real-world challenges. I integrated my curiosity for different scientific challenges to improve my essays. My professors also provided strong recommendation letters that aligned with my goals.

How Was Your Experience at the University of Cambridge and the Erasmus Mundus Partner Institutions?

It was incredibly enriching. Studying across Germany and France exposed me to different research cultures, languages, and teaching styles. I was able to engage in hands-on research and collaborate with experts across Europe. I worked at prestigious research labs in both countries. Later, at Cambridge, I had access to world-class labs and mentorship, making it a transformative phase of my academic life.

How Do You Rate the University of Cambridge and the Erasmus Mundus Partner Institutions Academically and Why?

I rate Cambridge and the Erasmus Mundus partner institutions very highly—10/10. The rigor, global exposure, and interdisciplinary environment challenged me to grow in both technical and soft skills. The access to cutting-edge facilities and expert faculty helped sharpen my research acumen.

How Do the University of Cambridge and the Erasmus Mundus Partner Institutions Support International Students?

All institutions I attended had robust support for international students, from orientation sessions to visa guidance, language courses, and cultural integration programs. Cambridge also had dedicated resources like the International Student Office, peer mentoring, and academic writing workshops.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or French/German?

All of my classes, even in Germany and France, were conducted in English, as part of the Erasmus Mundus curriculum and at Cambridge.

Would Students Have Problems Not Knowing French or German?

While you can manage academically without knowing the local language, basic knowledge of German or French is helpful for navigating daily life, local administration, and internships. Most institutions offer free language classes to help with this transition.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My consistent academic performance, research experience, and a clear vision of how I intended to use my education stood out!!

I also presented a unique perspective as a woman in STEM from Pakistan, committed to bridging global knowledge with local impact.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

I would have applied to more scholarships earlier and diversified my applications. I also would have spent more time preparing for the personal interview component of some programs, even though not all required it.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start early, research deeply, and be genuine. Tailor each application to reflect why you are uniquely suited for that program. Don’t hesitate to reach out to past scholars and seek feedback on your essays. Also, remember that your background is your strength—use it to craft a compelling narrative.