Professor Sir Peter Gregson served as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Cranfield University from 2013 to 2021, a decade that marked transformational change in the University’s trajectory. Under his leadership, Cranfield deepened its distinctive focus on postgraduate education and applied research, launched new international partnerships, and saw major investments in infrastructure and innovation.

Sir Peter’s commitment to excellence in science, engineering and leadership has had a lasting impact – not just at Cranfield, but across the higher education and research landscape in the UK and beyond.

Sir Peter generously established a scholarship at the University to support the next generation of PhD researchers, to ensure that opportunities remain accessible to the most talented students, regardless of their financial circumstances. The fund embodies Sir Peter’s commitment to opportunity and innovation - enabling bright minds from all backgrounds to pursue research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and technology.

Who was Sir Peter Gregson?

Your gift changes lives

Postgraduate research students are critical to Cranfield’s world-renowned work in aerospace, energy, environmental technology, materials, management, and leadership by making significant contributions to research. However, the financial burden of doctoral study can be a significant barrier for many deserving candidates.

Your gift to the Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship Fund will:

  • Provide life-changing scholarships for exceptional PhD students across the University.
  • Help Cranfield attract and support students from all backgrounds, regardless of financial circumstances.
  • Advance research that tackles global challenges and drives technological progress.
  • Offer access to a global network of over 80,000 alumni in 170 countries — a unique advantage of a Cranfield education.
  • Enable PhD graduates to make a lasting impact on critical global issues such as food security, sustainable technology, and environmental resilience.

Make a gift today

By contributing to the Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship Fund, you’re investing in future breakthroughs – and in the talented individuals who will lead them.

The easiest way to give a gift is online.

Please visit our secure online portal to make a one-off gift or set up a regular donation. A gift to the scholarship fund will help you honour Sir Peter Gregson’s legacy, set a bright student on the path to success. 

What’s more, as Cranfield University is a registered charity, if you are a UK taxpayer we can claim Gift Aid on your donation. This means that we can reclaim 25% from HM Revenue and Customs to help make your donation go further.

Donate now