The College of Life Sciences incorporates almost 80 independent research groups, organised by research divisions, which are engaged in research aimed at increasing our understanding of the molecular and functional organization of cells, tissues and organisms and the application of this knowledge to combat of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, inflammatory diseases, diseases of the immune system, antibiotic resistance and infectious parasitic diseases.
Besides performing research at the highest international standards the College considers training and nurturing of the next generation of researchers a top priority. The PhD Programme therefore represents a major activity in the College and is aimed at making this period an exciting and rewarding experience. We aim to recruit and train high calibre students and to reflect this the majority of PhD studentships in 2010-2011 will be 3.5- or 4-Year Prize Studentships (£16,000/year). In special cases it will remain possible to perform a 3-year PhD research project.
Divisional PhD programmes offer studentships to UK, EU and overseas applicants. The College also organises a highly prestigious Wellcome Trust 4-year PhD Programme and a newly-established 4-year MRC Programme. Together with the College of Medicine the College of Life Sciences runs a 3-year Wellcome Trust Clinical PhD programme and a 4-year Cancer Research UK programme. The College is also a recipient partner in the A*STAR PhD Programme.
The core part of all PhD programmes consists of a piece of original research, directed towards solving important, novel and open questions. All courses include compulsory and optional taught elements in subject specific and generic skills which are delivered throughout the duration of the course.
In order to apply for a PhD in the College of Life Sciences first select projects of interest offered by the different research programmes on offer and then apply using the online application form. We welcome applications at any time of the year for our Divisional programmes. If you are applying for the Wellcome Trust -funded programmes, you should submit your application as early as possible in the academic year.
Following submission of your application form, shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview throughout the year. Please note that for applications received after November 2010, candidates will normally be invited to attend one of our Interview Days:
