phd in medical science (cruk ci)

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Medical Science (CRUKCI)

Entry requirements.

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK 2:1 Honours Degree.

The undergraduate degree must be in a related or relevant subject. While not essential, many successful PhD applicants have relevant research experience, gained either as part of a research Masters degree or during laboratory placements.

Months of entry

January, April, October

Course content

The PhD programme in Medical Science in CRUK CI is designed to train biomedical researchers of the future. Over the immersive study period students will develop a deep understanding of their project, learning the complete set of skills required to make a valuable contribution to the knowledge of their field. They will also be exposed to a wide variety of interactive lectures and teaching exposing them to wider fields of interest.

The student is expected to take ownership of their project and to drive it forward with assistance from other members of the Institute, such as colleagues and core facility staff. The student is supported to submit their thesis within four years of commencing the study, and to prepare their research findings for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

In detail, students will gain the following skills:

In discussion with their research team, reading and critically evaluating scientific papers in their field of interest and using this as a basis to identify a critical question suitable for PhD study
Understanding research integrity, and its paramount importance in the research environment
Establishing a hypothesis and identifying the most appropriate experimental techniques and design to test it
Designing and carrying out suitably controlled experiments, followed by data analysis and interpretation
Precisely documenting their experimental aims, details and results and also presenting their findings to their colleagues at weekly lab meetings
In addition to the necessary scientific skills, successful research students also learn about time-management, collaboration and communication.

Information for international students

Language Requirement

IELTS (Academic)

Element Score

Listening 7.0

Writing 7.0

Reading 6.5

Speaking 7.0

TOEFL Internet Score

Listening 25

Speaking 25

Score: Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)

Score: Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

Campus-based learning is available for this qualification

Course contact details

Postgraduate Funding Search

Study at Cambridge
About the University
Research at Cambridge
Funding Search

Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute Studentships

Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI) offers a number of fully-funded postgraduate studentships for PhD study. The studentships are available to fund specific projects offered by supervisors aiming to recruit PhD students.

Applicants hoping to apply for one of our funded studentships should read through the following notes:

We will be advertising a number of funded PhD projects from 1st October 2023 on our website .
Funded PhD project information will only be available between 1st October 2023 and 13th November 2023 (the CRUK CI studentship application window).
To apply for one of our projects, you will need to complete a standard application for the PhD in Medical Science (CRUK CI) . There is a button on the course page (‘Apply Now’) that takes you to the application form.
On the application form, you should indicate your choice of project and supervisor in the Statement of Interest and Supervisor sections, respectively.
All applicants applying for the PhD in Medical Science (CRUK CI) are eligible to apply for our funded projects, provided they apply within the CRUK CI studentship application window 1st October 2023 to 13th November 2023.
All applicants for CRUK CI studentships should tick ‘Yes – I wish to apply for funding’ in the Funding section of their application.

Please note

Applicants wishing to apply to us for PhD study outside the CRUK CI studentship application window will also need to apply for alternative funding and cannot be considered for CRUK CI studentships.
From time to time, we will offer a longer application window for advertised CRUK CI studentships. Please check each individual advertisement carefully for closing date details, in addition to checking the information provided in the Postgraduate Funding Search.

Award details

In addition to the award value, your studentship will cover research consumables, training and conference travel.

To support an extension to study approved by the University.

Appropriate research experience.

Eligibility

Application process, 80 related courses found.

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MPhil in Medical Science (CRUK CI)

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Primary tabs

Overview (active tab)
Requirements
How To Apply

Applications are coordinated by CRUK CI. Prior to submitting the University of Cambridge online application form, you are strongly advised to identify a group leader in the Institute who is willing to supervise you for MPhil study. At present, the Institute accepts only one or two MPhil students each year and so competition for places is particularly fierce.

The MPhil course lasts for 12 months, during which time the student is expected to complete a research project, and write and submit a thesis of not more than 20,000 words. The student will then be examined orally on the thesis and on the wider field of knowledge into which it falls.

Each student is supported by a principal supervisor who is normally the head of the research team. In addition, each student has an adviser and possibly also a second supervisor, who may work closely with the student to provide day-to-day guidance as required. Dr Ann Kaminski (Head of Scientific Administration) acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work.

All student matters in the Institute are overseen by the CRUK CI Postgraduate Training Committee and the wider engaging Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee, both of which have the well-being of our students at heart.

All students are encouraged to attend lectures of interest both in the Institute and in the wider University. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by both the Institute and the University. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings relevant to their course of study. All students in the Institute are members of the student-run Postgraduate Society which organises regular scientific and social events.

The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and
to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.

Continuation from MPhil to PhD study is dependent on the MPhil student participating in the Institute PhD recruitment process. This involves the applicant giving a short presentation on a past research project and being interviewed by three Group Leaders/senior research staff.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.

See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

12 months full-time, 24 months part-time, study mode : research, master of philosophy, cancer research uk cambridge institute, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024 (closed), easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

Medical Science (CRUK CI) PhD
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Stem Cell Biology PhD

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Medical Science (CRUK CI)

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University of cambridge: medical science (cruk ci).

Institution
Department
Web	https://www.cam.ac.uk
Study type	Research

MPhil (Res)

Full-time, 1 years starts oct 2024.

Each student is supported by a principal supervisor who is normally the head of the research team. In addition, each student has an advisor and possibly also a second supervisor, who may work closely with the student to provide day-to-day guidance as required. Dr Ann Kaminski (Head of Scientific Administration) acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work.

The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

- to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and - to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

Level	RQF Level 7
Entry requirements	Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree.
Location	Cambridge University The Old Schools Trinity Lane Cambridge CB2 1TN

Part-Time, 2 years starts Oct 2024

Full-time, 1 years started oct 2023, part-time, 2 years started oct 2023, phd with integrated study, full-time, 3 years starts oct 2024.

Within 4 years of commencing the study, students are supported to submit their PhD theses (60,000-word limit) which is followed by an oral examination focussing on both their specific research topic and wider field of knowledge.

Each student is supported by a thesis advisory committee, which also assesses their progress and provides feedback. A thesis advisory committee is comprised of a Principal Supervisor, who is normally the head of the research team, a second group leader from within the Institute and an additional 1 or 2 external members. Dr Ann Kaminski (Head of Scientific Administration) acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work. All student matters in the Institute are overseen by the CRUK CI Postgraduate Training Committee and the Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee, both of which have the well-being of our students at heart.

All students are encouraged to attend lectures of interest both in the Institute and in the wider University. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by both the Institute and the University. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings relevant to their course of study. All students in the Institute are members of the student-run postgraduate society which organises regular scientific and social events.

Level	RQF Level 8
Entry requirements	Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree. The undergraduate degree must be in a related or relevant subject. While not essential, many successful PhD applicants have relevant research experience, gained either as part of a research Master's degree or during laboratory placements.
Location	Cambridge University The Old Schools Trinity Lane Cambridge CB2 1TN

Level

RQF Level 8

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree.

Location

Cambridge University
The Old Schools
Trinity Lane
Cambridge
CB2 1TN

Part-Time, 5 years starts Oct 2024

Full-time, 3 years started oct 2023, part-time, 5 years started oct 2023.

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Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute PhD Graduate Programme

The CRUK Manchester Institute is a leading cancer research institute within the University of Manchester, and is supported by major core funding from Cancer Research UK, the largest independent cancer research organisation in the world. The CRUK MI is at the heart of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre , a partnership that brings together the expertise, vision and resources of its founding partners: The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and Cancer Research UK, all of whom have formidable individual reputations in the fields of cancer treatment and research. Cancer Research in Manchester is world leading. Cancer is one of The University of Manchester’s research beacons, showcasing pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet.

In April 2017, The Paterson Building, which housed most of the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, suffered a major fire resulting in significant damage. During the period of rebuilding our world-class research facilities, our studentships were either based at the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (Oglesby Cancer Research Building), South Manchester, which has excellent facilities to carry out research, or at the internationally-renowned life sciences campus at Alderley Park. We returned to the new building and to our original site in Withington, Manchester, next to The Christie NHS Foundation Trust (Wilmslow Road, M20 4BX), UK in June 2023.

One of our current PhD students, Hannah Sheedy, talks about her research as she takes us on a tour of the Paterson Building:

CRUK MI comprises over 350 postdoctoral scientists, clinical fellows, scientific officers, administrative and technical staff, postgraduate research students and visiting fellows. The CRUK Manchester Institute is currenty located across two building on the same site; the Paterson Building and the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (Oglesby Cancer Research Building). Both buildings house research groups that are part of the Division of Cancer Sciences, The University of Manchester. Groups work on many aspects of cancer research, from programmes investigating the molecular and cellular basis of cancer, to those focused on translational research and the development of novel therapeutic approaches, with considerable synergy and interaction across all groups.

The CRUK Manchester Institute offers postgraduate degrees for students interested in a career involving cancer research. The Institute considers education of research and clinical scientists to be a major investment in the future generation of cancer researchers, and has an excellent track record of launching careers in basic, translation and clinical research. As part of this commitment, we have an active postgraduate programme that provides first class students and clinical research fellows the opportunity to study for cancer-related PhD degrees through a training programme that aims to improve effectiveness in research, provide professional and management skills and enhance career development. Ninety-nine percent (99%) of our students in the past 8 years have found employment after graduation; half of these are in USA or European laboratories, with 20% of these students continuing to progress in their clinical careers in the NHS. Students leave the CRUK MI with excellent career prospects across the world.

Cancer Research UK PhD Studentships

We are committed to training the next generation of cancer research scientists, helping launch careers in basic, translational and clinical cancer research. Postgraduate students enjoy a supportive environment, a challenging project and, together with tailored training in transferable and generic skills, development as independent scientists with excellent career prospects will ensue.

A PhD should be an exciting and stimulating time. We are looking for talented and motivated graduates with backgrounds in biological and biomedical sciences, mathematics, computer science and/or chemistry interested in pursuing scientific research careers. As well as benefitting from dynamic and interactive research environment, graduate students will have access to outstanding facilities within the Institute.

Each year we recruit students to join us on our 4 year PhD programme. Cancer Research UK studentships within the Institute and we welcome applications from UK, EU and international students. CRUK studentships are fully funded by Cancer Research UK and come with a generous tax-free stipend (living allowance) of £21,000/annum (outside of London), tuition fees and allocation of appropriate level of funding to ensure the project bench fees are fully supported. Projects are typically conducted within a single research group, although many students find themselves interacting and collaborating with more than one group as their project matures.

Studentships are advertised on our webpages annually in October/November with interviews taking place in January/February of the academic intake year. We are flexible as to intake within University postgraduate semesters with registrations in either April or September. Additional PhD studentships and vacancies may be advertised at various times throughout the year.

Hear from some of our current PhD students on their research and experience at the CRUK Manchester Institute here

Self-Funding Students

If you have secured your own funding (stipend, tuition, bench and living fees) to undertake and support a PhD degree, and you are interested in study with a supervisor based at the CRUK Manchester Institute, you can submit an application directly to the University of Manchester for consideration; https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/ Your application should clearly state how you intend to fund your studies for the duration, an outline of your proposed research and interests, supporting academic, sponsorship and financial documentation. You will need to select "PhD Cancer Sciences" as the programme description on the application form. Please note, regardless of funding, the CRUK Manchester Institute PhD admission criteria remains as above: a first or upper second class honours degree and minimum level of English language qualification.

Visiting Postgraduate Students (maximum 12 months)

Each year a number of students that are currently registered for a PGR programme at another institution spend time at the University undertaking research and training. All visiting students must be formally registered with the University of Manchester.

Appropriate registration of PGR student visitors on the student record system means that the University can meet its legal obligations for monitoring and oversight of students, e.g. for immigration, insurance, health and safety, and export control due diligence purposes. All students visiting the University for more than a week must be registered on Campus Solutions. Registration ensures the student experience, providing University identification, allowing access to email, access to the library and other buildings and facilities, as well as ensuring associated insurance cover.

It is, therefore, a requirement that the University of Manchester's Doctoral Academy is made aware of all visiting PGR students to enable the following:

approve all tuition fee levels in advance of the student arrival (by the relevant Division Senior PGR)
identify students that are considered to be part of a collaborative research arrangement (which attracts a one-off lower fee)*
formally register the student on the University system to allow the payment of appropriate fees which covers swipe card, email, library access, insurance cover for access to buildings and facilities

Tuition fees may be applied at the ‘collaborative fee’ rate when the student is attached to a supervisor as part of a genuine collaborative research initiative, or when a supervisor has relocated from another institution with their research group but the student remains registered at that institution.

If you are interested in a visiting postgraduate place to study with a supervisor based at the CRUK Manchester Institute, you should contact the proposed supervisor directly to discuss further before submitting an application to the University of Manchester for consideration.

Monitoring, Mentoring, Progression and Supervision

Students offered a PhD position at the Institute will receive high quality training in scientific research through an intellectually demanding, but achievable research project. Projects are internally and externally peer-reviewed and approved by the Education Committee in advance of a student commencing their project. Every student will have a main supervisor, a nominated co-supervisor to contribute their expertise, and pastoral advisor to provide impartial support and advice. A laboratory supervisor (post-doctoral fellow or associate scientist) will ensure that day-to-day supervision is provided for technical support.

eProg is the University of Manchester's online progression system to support you through the duration of your PGR programme. It allows you to break down the requirements of the programme into manageable goals and supports you in planning achievable targets. eProg enables you and your supervisory team to record and reflect on your progress against agreed objectives and deadlines. Ultimately, it helps students complete their research programme both effectively and on time with set milestones and deadlines. eProg is accessible from any location throughout your PhD.

PhD progress is monitored via a mixture of oral presentations, written reports and progress meetings. These modes of assessment are designed not only to provide formal points at which progress is monitored, but also to help develop the presentations skills which are a fundamental part of a successful research career. We ask our PhD students to present their data regularly within their own research groups and also at internal/external seminars throughout their project. This focused environment is key in providing an opportunity to present and discuss your research with peers.

CRUK Manchester Institute Education Committee

The Education acts for postgraduate students based within a core-funded Cancer Research group. The Education Committee's goal is for every student to have an approved research degree proposal at the commencement of their studies ensuring this is both achievable and intellectually stimulating. Alongside the supervisory team, the Education Committee monitors student progression, attends student talks and provides written feedback to students throughout the various yearly assessment stages of their project.

The Education Committee is staffed by the Institute's senior group leaders, operational staff and student representatives;

Chair and Director: Tim Somervaille
Ex-Officio Member: Caroline Dive
Postgraduate Tutor: Santiago Zelenay
Postgraduate Manager: Julie Edwards
Academic staff members: Georges Lacaud, Claus Jorgensen, Caroline Wilkinson, Amaya Viros, Carlos Lopez Garcia, Mark Williams
Student Representatives: Sophie Richardson, Florentia Mousoullou

PGR Director

The School PGR Director leads postgraduate research activities within the School and works with the Head of School — and a team of Senior Tutors at Division level – to ensure that PGR objectives and issues are addressed at both a strategic and operational level.

Postgraduate Tutor (PGT)

Within the University of Manchester's School of Medical Sciences there is an appointed Postgraduate Tutor (PGT). The role of the PGT within the CRUK Manchester Institute is to approve eProg milestones, advise on research progress, approve theses examiners, to provide academic and pastoral support and to serve as an Education Committee member.

Meetings and Conferences

The CRUK MI runs an external seminar series featuring talks from many of the leading scientists in cancer research, which our students attend. The speakers are internationally renowned scientists and we consider it essential that our students are exposed to outstanding research from leaders in different disciplines, which will give them a broad understanding of many aspects of cancer research and basic biology. In addition, we hold a series of weekly postdoctoral research seminars and attendance from PhD students is also an integral part of their learning. While students themselves are asked to give talks at key points during their PhD, they also have opportunities to present their work at lab meetings and during student forums within the Institute.

STAy (Science TakeAway) is a Committee group run by junior scientists and students in the CRUK Manchester Institute with the aim of providing a forum for discussions and training related to research, communication of scientific engagement and development of social and networking opportunities. STAy are keen to encourage networking, career progression and personal growth of early-career researchers.

The CRUK Manchester Institute Colloquium takes place annually in September, and is an excellent opportunity for our new intake of students to meet other established PhD students, members of the Institute, including group leaders, postdoctoral fellows, and scientific officers. This forum communicates up to date science in the form of oral presentations given by group leaders and second year PhD students, as well as poster presentations from a range of scientists across the Institute covering all aspects of cancer research.

Cancer Research UK contributes towards an exclusive annual international PhD Student Cancer Conference (IPSCC) allowing high calibre students from top cancer research institutes across Europe to organise and present at their own scientific conference. Core participating Institutes include the CRUK Manchester Institute, The Francis Crick, Cambridge Institute, Beatson Institute, Netherlands Cancer Institute, European School of Molecular Medicine, German Cancer Research and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine.

Manchester is a diverse and cosmopolitan city with a compact and friendly centre. It is a vibrant and dynamic city where culture, food, music, night life, shopping and sport are second to none - all within easy access via tram, train and bus links. There is something for everyone in Manchester! We are also central for discovering the more tranquil surrounds of Cheshire, Peak and Lake District National Parks as well as North Wales, all of which have plenty to offer.

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PhD in Medical Science (CRUK CI) University of Cambridge

Study options.

International

What will I learn?

Each student is supported by a thesis committee, which also assesses their progress and provides feedback. A thesis committee is comprised of a principal supervisor, who is normally the head of the research team, a second group leader from within the Institute and an additional 1 or 2 external members. Dr Ann Kaminski (Head of Scientific Administration) acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work. All student matters in the Institute are overseen by the CRUK CI Postgraduate Training Committee and the Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee, both of which have the well-being of our students at heart.

All students are encouraged to attend lectures of interest both in the Institute and in the wider University. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by both the Institute and the University. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings relevant to their course of study. All students in the Institute are members of the student-run postgraduate society which organises regular scientific and social events.

Which department am I in?

Full time (3 years).

1 October 2024, 5 January 2025, 17 April 2025

The Old Schools,

Trinity Lane,

Cambridgeshire,

CB2 1TN, England

Entry requirements

For international students.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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PhD in Medical Science (CRUK CI)

University of cambridge, different course options.

Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Medical Sciences

Course type

All students are encouraged to attend lectures of interest both in the Institute and in the wider University. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by both the Institute and the University. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings relevant to their course of study. All students in the Institute are members of the student-run postgraduate society which organises regular scientific and social events.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK II.i Honours Degree.

Medical Microbiology MSc

London school of hygiene & tropical medicine, university of london, medical statistics msc, control of infectious diseases msc, immunology of infectious diseases msc, medical parasitology msc.

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Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute building

Established in 2007, the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute was the first major new cancer research centre in the UK for over 50 years.

Our goal is to combine world-leading basic cancer biology with key technologies to bear on practical questions of cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Research in the CRUK Cambridge Institute focuses primarily on Tumour Ecology and Evolution , with investigations across four main areas:

Basic research into the cellular and molecular biology of cancer.
Research in molecular imaging, genomics, bioinformatics and computational biology.
Research focused on specific cancers, which form a link between laboratory and clinic.
Clinical investigations including experimental medicine clinical trials and, in the longer term, population-based studies in screening and prevention.

The Institute’s state-of-the-art core facilities play a key role in catalysing science, not only within the Institute but across Cambridge through multiple collaborations. Each facility provides equipment, support and training as well as the capacity to develop bespoke technologies. The core funding provided by Cancer Research UK allows each of our Group Leaders the freedom to expand their programme of work and follow innovative new ideas.

The Cambridge Biomedical Campus is Europe’s largest centre of health science and medical research and provides unique access to both the clinic and industry. By working in close alignment with the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, researchers within the Institute can gain from clinical trial infrastructure, additional funding streams as well as networking opportunities. In 2013, the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute became a department of the University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, strengthening links with researchers across the University.

Aerial view of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus

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1 Funded Projects
2 Funded Programmes
2.1 BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences
2.2 Cardiovascular Research 4-Year Cambridge-BHF PhD Programme
2.3 Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute MPhil and PhD in Medical Science
2.4 CRUK Cambridge Centre MRes + PhD in Cancer Biology
2.5 CRUK Cambridge Centre Clinical Research Fellowships
2.6 EMBL-EBI International PhD Programme
2.7 Herchel Smith Cambridge Harvard PhD Programme
2.8 MRC Biostatistics Unit
2.9 MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit
2.10 MRC DTP and iCASE Programme
2.11 MRC Epidemiology Unit
2.12 MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
2.13 MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit
2.14 National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Programme
2.15 Wellcome 1+3 Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine
2.16 Wellcome Sanger Institute

Funded Projects

Within the PSLS there are a number of opportunities to work on funded projects. Please see the Job Opportunities website for more details, or view the list along the right hand side of this page.

Funded Programmes

The University and its Partner Institutions offer a number of programmes that are funded by the Research Councils or major charities, such as the Wellcome Trust, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK etc.

These programmes advertise studentships that are awarded specifically for the particular programme of study on a strictly competitive basis; candidates are normally interviewed in Cambridge for these awards. These programmes mean that successful candidates receive a combined offer of a place on the course and funding.

The Programmes currently available in the PSLS are listed below:

BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences

Applications for the BBSRC DTP PhD studentships starting in October 2024 are now closed.

Details concerning opportunities for study in October 2025 will be announced via the BBSRC DTP website .

Find out more

Cardiovascular Research 4-Year Cambridge- BHF PhD Programme

The goal of this 1+3 MRes + PhD programme in Cardiovascular Research is to train scientists in cross-disciplinary research related to cardiovascular disease, particularly those who can work effectively across traditional disciplines and lead collaborative research projects. The programme combines formal training in molecular and cellular biology, physiology of model organisms, human physiology, human genetics, genomics and population health sciences.

The programme brings together world-leading expertise, drawing on faculty at the University of Cambridge’s Schools of Medicine and Biological Sciences and several interdisciplinary institutes: the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Institute of Public Health, Institute of Metabolic Science, and Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine.

The programme provides a generous living allowance and full fees at the ‘home’ rate.

How to apply?

Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal .

Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute MPhil and PhD in Medical Science

The PhD in Medical Science in CRUK CI is a research course in which each student studies in the research laboratory of their principal supervisor, with close interaction with their graduate and post-doctoral colleagues. Each student will be work on a specific project that will be aligned with and contribute to the overall objectives of the lab. Students are expected to take ownership of their projects and to drive them forward with assistance from other members of the Institute. Students are supported to submit their theses within 4 years of commencing study, and to prepare their research findings for publication in scientific journals.

About half of our PhD students receive studentships from Cancer Research UK. In addition, studentship funding is available from grants held by individual research groups and we also host students on the MB/PhD programme and clinical research training fellows. We welcome applications from students who have won competitive fellowships.

The CRUK also offers one funded place per year on the MPhil in Medical Science at CRUK CI.

Projects will be advertised via the Department website and along the right hand side of this page.

Applicants apply for the course directly via the Graduate Applicant Portal for the MPhil and the PhD .

CRUK Cambridge Centre MRes + PhD in Cancer Biology

Seven (5 +2 Black leaders studentships) CRUK Cambridge Centre MRes + PhD studentships are available for non-clinical applicants, to commence in October 2024.

Find out more about the course

Students will apply for one of the 7 studentships and, if successful, will start in October 2024. Two students of the seven are recruited through the Black Leaders In Cancer PhD Scholarship programme .

Students apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal .

CRUK Cambridge Centre Clinical Research Fellowships

One of the main principles of the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre is the open exchange of scientific knowledge and skills across the many disciplines involved in cancer science, creating a culture of continuous learning and development for all members. In keeping with this aim, the Centre also supports a broad programme of formal education and training designed to nurture the next generation of cancer researchers and clinicians.

We provide funding for Clinical Research Training Fellowships comprising of a 3-year PhD for candidates who have completed their medical training.

By being part of the CRUK Cambridge Centre, clinical students will also have the opportunity to attend a number of lecture series, workshops and meetings aimed at facilitating and strengthening collaborations between complementary disciplines and across different departments and institutes.

EMBL-EBI International PhD Programme

Established in 1983, the EMBL International PhD Programme provides students with the best starting platform for a successful career in science. Characterised by first-class training, internationality, dedicated mentoring and early independence in research, it is among the world's most competitive PhD training schemes. All of EMBL's six sites participate in the programme.

The typical duration of a PhD thesis at EMBL is 3.5 to 4 years. EMBL predoctoral fellowships are initially awarded for 3.5 years, with the possibility of a half-year extension. The stipend is competitive by international standards and includes broad health care benefits and pension.

Projects are advertised on the Department website

Application opens: August 2023

Application submission deadline: 09 October 2023, 23:59 CEST

Reference deadline: 11 October 2023, 23:59 CEST

Interview dates: To be confirmed

Written application results: Will be announced around mid-November 2023

Expected start date: Flexible, by October 2024 at the latest

Herchel Smith Cambridge Harvard PhD Programme

Funded by a generous bequest from Dr Herchel Smith the University is pleased to offer a PhD studentship programme for prospective Harvard and Cambridge students. Cambridge presently recruits four PhD students annually (for a four-year period of study), while Harvard recruits six PhD students annually (for a two-year period of study).

The Herchel Smith Research Studentships are among the most prestigious studentships offered by the Universities. Students are selected at both institutions within the broad area of Life Sciences and regular meetings of students and Managers are incorporated into the scheme,.

At Cambridge the Herchel Smith Research Studentships provide:

Tuition Fees (fully or partially covered by a college)

Stipend at the Wellcome Trust rates for four years

Research Support grant (£5,000 a year)

Visa costs (for the overseas students)

Successful applicants may have the opportunity to apply to undertake a one- or two-month research project at Harvard University as part of their studies.

To view Terms and Conditions, please click here.

There is no separate form of application for Herchel Smith Studentships; all eligible applicants who apply through the Postgraduate Applicant Portal will be considered.

MRC Biostatistics Unit

The MRC Biostatistics Unit at the University of Cambridge (MRC BSU) aims to advance understanding of the cause, natural history and treatment of disease, and to evaluate public health strategies, through the development of statistical methods and their application to the design, analysis and interpretation of biomedical studies.

The BSU is an internationally recognised research unit and part of the University of Cambridge, specialising in statistical modelling with application to medical, biological or public health sciences. Details of the work carried out in the Unit appear on our Research page.

The BSU provides an ideal place to commence a career in Biostatistics. Our thriving PhD programme is hugely successful and competition for places is high. The BSU’s relaxed yet enthusiastic, dedicated and stimulating environment provides students with the essential tools, both in research and transferrable skills, to set them on their way to a successful career as an independent researcher.

A BSU Studentship covers all fees at the University of Cambridge home/EU rate, a taxfree stipend or living allowance and a generous travel and training budget.

PhD opportunities will be advertised on the Unit’s website and applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal.

MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit

The MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit (MRC CBU), at the University of Cambridge, is one of the largest and most enduring contributors to the understanding of human cognition and its disorders. The unit explores cognitive activities such as attention, emotion, language and memory. The research carried out spans the spectrum from basic to translational science including developing new treatments for depression, improving hearing through cochlear implants and helping children to overcome memory problems.

We host 20-30 graduate students at any time and applications are invited from prospective PhD students wishing to pursue research in areas covered by any of our research programmes. Our approaches include experimental cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, computational modelling and neuroimaging using MRI, MEG, and EEG.

The programme is funded by the MRC and students received a living stipend and full fees at the Home/EU rate.

Students apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal for the MPhil or the PhD .

MRC DTP and iCASE Programme

The Cambridge MRC DTP is offering 5 fully funded MRC Industry Partner (iCASE) PhD studentships commencing in October 2024. Please see the list for projects currently available. Further projects will be added once confirmed.

The industry partner specifies a research project that will be of importance to them, and provides a placement at their premises for the student of at least 3 months, together with an additional non-academic supervisor. Students will need to select from a list available projects , based either in the School of Clinical Medicine, or the School of Biological Science.

These studentships allow postgraduate research students to receive high quality research training, with the additional benefit of working closely with an industrial partner. These collaborations will provide MRC iCASE students with unique technical and transferable skills, as well as an insight into how commercial science is conducted, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Each iCASE studentship is fully funded, and includes an annual stipend for 4 years at the UKRI minimum rate, plus an additional stipend top-up per annum, University fees and research costs.

In addition to excellent research facilities, students will have access to a wide variety of training and researcher development activities, many of which are offered through the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences and the wider University, and access to the MRC flexible supplement, which can be used to fund a wide range of additional training activities, and opportunities.

Please see the How to Apply page for further details on how to fill out your application form. The final closing date for all applications will be 1st December 2023.

For general enquiries, please email [email protected]

The Medical Research Council (MRC) and University of Cambridge actively support equality, diversity and inclusion, and we encourage applications from eligible applicants from all sections of society.

MRC Epidemiology Unit

The MRC Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge (MRC EU) studies the genetic, developmental and environmental factors that cause obesity, diabetes and related metabolic disorders. The outcomes from these studies are then used to develop strategies for the prevention of these diseases in the general population.

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is a research department in the School of Clinical Medicine at the University of Cambridge and investigates the causes and prevention of obesity and diabetes. The department also hosts the Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR), a UKCRC Centre of Excellence in Public Health Research. CEDAR studies the population-level determinants of dietary and physical activity behaviours, develops and evaluates public health interventions and is helping to shape public health practice and policy.

Our PhD students have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research under the supervision of senior scientists supported by postdoctoral researchers and a large team of fieldworkers, data managers, statisticians, study coordinators, technical and administrative staff.

MRC Studentships (when available) offer Full Funding for applicants who are both UK nationals and UK residents, to cover the University Composition Fee and a stipend (see MRC student eligibility criteria). For other European Economic Area (EEA) applicants, MRC Studentships offer only Partial Funding, covering only the University Composition Fee. More information about financing your studies can be found here .

Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal for the PhD .

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is a research institute dedicated to the understanding of important biological processes at the levels of atoms, molecules, cells and organisms. Our work covers a broad range of science, employing the diverse methods of physics, chemistry and biology to advance the knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.

We believe that major challenges are best addressed in a multidisciplinary environment with long-term support and where detailed molecular studies are channelled into opportunities for medical benefits or major technical innovation. The LMB has four Research Divisions with distinct but well aligned research priorities:

Cell Biology: To discover the molecular mechanisms of fundamental cellular processes with potential medical significance
Neurobiology: To understand fundamental properties of nerve cells in health and disease through the elucidation of molecular mechanisms
Protein & Nucleic Acid Chemistry: To obtain insights into human biological diseases at the molecular and structural level
Structural Studies: To understand the mechanisms underlying fundamental biological processes

Our scientists tackle fundamental, often difficult, and long-term research problems. The LMB has made revolutionary contributions to science, such as pioneering X-ray crystallography to determine protein structures, the sequencing of DNA and the development of monoclonal antibodies. Eleven Nobel Prizes have been awarded for work carried out by LMB scientists: the most recent one – in 2017 to Richard Henderson, for developments in cryo-electron microscopy for the solution of the atomic structures of macromolecules.

About a fifth of the scientists at the LMB are graduate students, often driving the most creative areas of scientific research. We recruit 15-20 PhD students every year.

During the application process you will automatically be considered for the appropriate LMB funding:

Full MRC Studentships for UK and eligible EU graduates
Full International Scholarships for other graduates from the EU, the Commonwealth and world wide candidates
César Milstein Studentship for Argentinian Nationals

Students apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal.

Here is a list of current projects and how to find out more about us

MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit

Research at the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit (MRC MBU) is focussed on the biology of mitochondria and their dysfunction in an ever-increasing range of human diseases. The Unit combines studies exploring the molecular function of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system, the mitochondrial proteome and genome, and how mitochondria interact with the cell through homeostatic, signalling and execution pathways. Combined with the wealth of clinical, genetic and biochemical data provided by mitochondrial medicine, and the use of model systems with perturbed mitochondrial physiology, the Unit aims to exploit its findings for the development of new therapies to treat human disease.

The Mitochondrial Biology Unit has an active post-graduate programme for training students for the PhD or occasionally MPhil degrees. The programme aims to provide high quality training in both research and in transferable skills. The students are supervised and assessed by a research supervisor and a separate advisor, under the overall supervision of the Unit's postgraduate education committee consisting of three of the Unit's Faculty.

Each year, the Unit awards up to four UKRI/MRC PhD studentships on a competitive basis to eligible students. The studentship pays for Cambridge University and College fees, and each student receives a generous full stipend of £18,000 per year, payable for up to four years. Three of these studentships are available for UK/Irish citizens or UK permanent residents and one is available to EU/international students.

Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal for the PhD .

National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Programme

Us citizens only.

The National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program is an accelerated, individualized doctoral training program for outstanding science students committed to biomedical research careers. The program is based on the British system, in which students perform doctoral research without required formal courses other than those students choose to take in relationship to their own interests. Students selected for admission to the program have already developed a passion for science through engagement in summer, job related, or undergraduate research programs. The program is available to US citizens available to US citizens or US permanent residents.

Students will receive tuition and stipend support, based on NIH policy, for the duration of the program (approximately 4 yrs.)

Applicants apply to NIH first - How to Apply

Then apply to the University of Cambridge Postgraduate Applicant Portal.

Wellcome 1+3 Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine

Wellcome generously funds our highly competitive 4-Year MRes + PhD (1+3) PhD Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine. The Cambridge Stem Cell Institute offers a unique environment for high-level research training in stem cell biology, with our research groups working across three key research themes: Stem Cell States, Stem Cells in Disease and Stem Cells & Therapeutics. The University of Cambridge is exceptional in the depth and diversity of its research in this field, and has a dynamic and interactive research community, ranked amongst the foremost in the world. Our Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine enables students to take advantage of the strength and breadth of stem cell research available in Cambridge, plus the added benefits that the unique culture of College life and membership of the University of Cambridge provide.

This programme provides students with an opportunity to spend time in three different labs during their first 'rotation' year, before making a decision about where they would like to undertake their thesis work in years 2-4.　

These studentships are considered once each year and are relevant to prospective students who have not decided on a specific supervisor and/or do not have their own funding.

Up to five studentships are available on this programme each year. Funding includes a generous stipend, plus research costs and tuition fees at the home rate.

Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal.

Wellcome Sanger Institute

The Wellcome Sanger Institute uses sequencing, informatics and analysis of genetic variation to further our understanding of gene function in health and disease, and to explore the diversity of complex organisms.

The Institute’s PhD programmes aim to provide training and research opportunities in the field of genomic science that reflect the unique nature of Sanger Institute science, with an emphasis on large-scale, high-throughput approaches and the development of a blend of wet-lab and computational skills. The Institute also aims to provide students with general research and transferable skills training in addition to training in their specific research area. Applicants will generally have a bioscience background, but applicants with a computational or mathematical background can also apply.

The Sanger 4-year PhD programme provides 12 funded PhD studentships per year and the Clinical PhD programme provides 2 funded clinical PhD fellowships per year.

The Wellcome Sanger Institute occasionally takes on MPhil students providing they have their own funding. Before applying for the MPhil course, applicants must have the support of a faculty member at the Institute.

Sanger Institute 4-year PhD programme: Applications are submitted first via the Sanger Institute application process .

PhD Programme for Health Professionals: Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal .

MPhil students: Applicants apply directly via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal .

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Opportunities for PhD students and postdoc researchers

We're committed to supporting the next generation of cancer researchers, and our community includes around 550 PhD students and 750 postdoctoral researchers. Our researchers benefit from support including networking groups and events, training, travel grants, and opportunities to begin developing their independent research careers.

Find a PhD or postdoc

Recruitment for PhD studentships and postdoc positions is usually managed independently by the institutes, centres and investigators that we fund around the UK. If you are interested in studying or working with us, we advise you to:

Browse our institutes and centres, and search for positions on their websites

Browse our recently funded awards to find potential supervisors

Search for projects on FindAPhD.com or FindAPostdoc.com

If you already have postdoc experience, you may also be eligible to begin developing your independent research group with our career development fellowships and awards:

Browse our research career development opportunities

Benefits of studying and working with us

As a CRUK-funded student or researcher you will have access to our networking, training and other career development opportunities and benefits, including:

Networking meeting for new PhD students

"Communicating your research" training workshops

Careers day for students nearing the end of their PhD

Annual postdoctoral researchers networking meeting

Annual clinical researchers meeting

Flexible working policies

Disability and accessibility support

We want our research funding to be accessible for everyone. So we’ve developed guidance covering the support we offer grant applicants and grant holders who are disabled or have a long-term health condition.

We welcome researchers from all backgrounds and offer support for anyone needing adjustments in grant applications, interviews and award reporting.

Entrepreneurial Programmes

Our entrepreneurial programmes will show you how to build a business, connect you to a network of like-minded people and help you find the right advice and support, when you need it.

Black Leaders in Cancer PhD Scholarship Programme

In partnership with Black in Cancer and the Windsor Fellowship, we’re offering a PhD programme for Black undergraduates. By providing funding and comprehensive wraparound support for these students, we can make an immediate and tangible impact on the diversity of our research community.

Research opportunities for clinical trainees

Clinician scientists provide a valuable bridge between research and clinical practice. We have a number of opportunities to help clinical trainees get a taste of research and develop their careers in cancer research.

Pre-doctoral Research Bursary

Our Research Bursary provides short-term funding to allow clinicians and other health professionals to get involved in research projects early in their career.

Clinical research training fellowship PhDs

We fund Clinical Research Training Fellowships at each of our translational research Centres. Clinical trainees seeking PhD opportunities should contact Centres directly.

Postdoctoral Research Bursary for Clinical Trainees

This award offers funding for clinical trainees to remain active in research after completion of a PhD.

More career development opportunities

We offer a range of fellowships, bursaries and other support to help outstanding scientists and clinicians develop their independent research careers.

Research career development opportunities

Subscribe to research updates

Stay up to date with research and career development opportunities at CRUK with our monthly Research Update email newsletter.

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Applications for admission in October 2024 are now closed.

The information below will be updated in October 2024 when applications will open for entry in October 2025.

MRes +PhD studentships 2024

Seven (5 +2 Black leaders studentships) CRUK Cambridge Centre MRes + PhD studentships are available for non-clinical applicants, to commence in October 2024.

Course information is available here: https://crukcambridgecentre.org.uk/content/mres-phd-programme-cancer-biology Students will apply for one of the 7 studentships and, if successful, will start in October 2024. Two students of the seven are recruited through the Black Leaders In Cancer PhD Scholarship programme .

A Sample of Projects offered for 2024:

T cell synergy in anti-tumour responses Supervisor: Dr Arianne Richard

Engineering AI to map broken and repaired DNA during genome replication Supervisor: Dr Michael Boemo
Elucidating the role of Micropeptides in B cell lymphoma Supervisor: Dr Dan Hodson
Machine learning and integrative 'omics for multi-cancer risk prediction Supervisor: Dr Siddhartha Kar

LINK TO ALL PROJECTS 2024

One of the main principles of the Centre is the open exchange of scientific knowledge and skills across the many disciplines involved in cancer science, creating a culture of continuous learning and development for all members. By being part of the Centre, students will also have the opportunity to attend a number of lecture series, workshops and meetings aimed at facilitating and strengthening collaborations between complimentary disciplines and across different departments and institutes.

The CRUK Cambridge Centre MRes + PhD studentships include full funding from Cancer Research UK to cover the University Composition Fee (at Home (UK) rate), a travel and consumables budget, and a generous stipend, which is currently £21,000 per annum. In addition, the CRUK Cambridge Centre and the Cambridge Commonwealth, European and International Trust provides joint funding for up to two Overseas, non-clinical students each academic year.

How to apply

Applications must be made via the University of Cambridge Postgraduate Admissions website .

In addition to the application form, applicants must upload a personal statement , outlining why they are interested in the CRUK CC MRes+PhD studentships. The statement should be max 1000 words and include 1) What motivates you to choose this course 2) Two research projects (see link on this page) you find interesting and why 3) Something about you and your life experience beyond your academic studies (The statement should be uploaded as a PDF to the online Applicant Portal in the Course Specific Questions section of the course application).

If your fee status is classified as overseas, you must also apply for the University funding competition to obtain funding for the higher fee rate.

We invite applications from UK and Overseas students for these non-clinical studentships. Please ensure you meet the University of Cambridge entrance requirements .

If you are a clinical student you will need to apply for a Clinical Research Training Fellowship via the University of Cambridge Job Opportunities website . More information here: https://crukcambridgecentre.org.uk/education-and-training/ccc-clinical-research-fellowships

Interview and selection process

Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application via email by late December 2023. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a day of interviews in early January 2024 . These interviews are likely to be online. However, if the interviews are held in person, reasonable travel costs and one night's stay in a hotel will be reimbursed with prior authorisation.

You will be interviewed by the Training Programme Directors and a panel of Principal Investigators from the CRUK Cambridge Centre. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their interview at the beginning of February 2024 and successful applicants will receive a formal offer letter by mid-February 2024 .

The DEADLINE for applications for entry in 2024 is 15 th November 2023 .

If you have general enquiries about the CRUK Cambridge Centre non-clinical MRes + PhD studentships or the application process, please contact the CRUK Cambridge Centre Postgraduate Training Programme office on [email protected]

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University of Cambridge

Degree level: postgraduate, medical science (cruk ci) (research), course options.

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

Applications are coordinated by the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI). Students have an initial probationary year with registration for the PhD, towards the end of year one, dependent on the successful completion and pass of a first-year report and an oral examination. Within 4 years of commencing the study, students are supported to submit their PhD theses (60,000-word limit) which is followed by an oral examination focussing on both their specific research topic and wider field of knowledge. Each student is supported by a thesis advisory committee, which also assesses their progress and provides feedback. A thesis advisory committee is comprised of a Principal Supervisor, who is normally the head of the research team, a second group leader from within the Institute and an additional 1 or 2 external members. Dr Ann Kaminski (Head of Scientific Administration) acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work. All student matters in the Institute are overseen by the CRUK CI Postgraduate Training Committee and the Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee, both of which have the well-being of our students at heart. All students are encouraged to attend lectures of interest both in the Institute and in the wider University. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by both the Institute and the University. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings relevant to their course of study. All students in the Institute are members of the student-run postgraduate society which organises regular scientific and social events.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree. The undergraduate degree must be in a related or relevant subject. While not essential, many successful PhD applicants have relevant research experience, gained either as part of a research Master's degree or during laboratory placements.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees.

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Provider information.

Visit our website

University of Cambridge The Old Schools Trinity Lane Cambridge CB2 1TN

Course contact details

2 course options.

Please select a course option to view the information for the course

			Duration
Cambridge University		Part-time	5 years	October 2024	Please speak to the provider to make an application
Cambridge University		Full-time	3 years	October 2024	Please speak to the provider to make an application

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