Program Overview

Overview

The Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology (ISMIB) offers a PhD program in Biotechnology, which combines systems-based studies, including multiomics, data analysis, structural biology, synthetic biology, and artificial intelligence. The program is supported by top-tier research facilities and a commitment to sharing discoveries.

Introduction

The Biotechnology PhD program integrates molecular biology, genetic engineering, and biochemical engineering across a variety of biomolecules. Research topics include bioinformatics, biochemistry, enzymology, plant biochemistry, biotechnology, structural biology, computational biology, chemical biology, multiomics, systems biology, and nutritional biochemistry.

Research Topics

• Bioinformatics
• Biochemistry
• Enzymology
• Plant biochemistry
• Biotechnology
• Structural biology
• Computational biology
• Chemical biology
• Multiomics
• Systems biology
• Nutritional biochemistry

How to Apply

To apply for the Biotechnology PhD program, follow these steps:

1. Identify potential supervisors: Explore the staff lists for the Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology to find potential supervisors.
2. Prepare application documents: Gather required documents, including a research proposal, university transcripts, degree certificates, passport details, English language certificates, a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, and contact details for proposed supervisors and referees.
3. Apply online: Register and apply online, and you will receive an email acknowledgment once you have submitted your application.

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

• UK fees: Full-time place, per year - £5,238; Part-time place, per year - £2,619
• International fees: Full-time place, per year - £32,200; Part-time place, per year - £16,100

Additional Costs

Additional costs may include buying a laptop, books, or stationery. The university provides information on additional study costs and general student living costs.

Funding Your PhD

• Postgraduate Doctoral Loan: Up to £30,301 for UK nationals or those with settled status in the UK
• Funded research opportunities: Available from UK research councils, charities, and trusts
• Scholarships and bursaries: Offered by the university, including the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship and the John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

Facilities and Resources

The Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology is situated primarily across the University's north campus, including the Biosciences, Sherrington, William Henry Duncan, and Waterhouse Buildings. Researchers benefit from access to world-class equipment and facilities via the Liverpool Shared Research Facilities.

Careers and Employability

The university provides career support from day one to graduation and beyond, including:

• Prosper: A program offering structured career development and support for postdocs
• PGR Development Hub: Development opportunities for postgraduate researchers
• Career Studio: A space for students and graduates to access tailored guidance and support for finding and applying for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships, and graduate schemes

Meet Our PhD Researchers

The university's postgraduate researchers are shaping their future and the future of the world, advancing knowledge with each discovery.

Entry Requirements

To apply for the Biotechnology PhD program, you will normally be expected to hold:

• A UK honours degree, or overseas equivalent, at 2:1 or above, in a relevant subject
• A UK master's degree, or overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, or equivalent qualifications

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
• TOEFL iBT: 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17, and speaking 19 (for tests taken on or before 20 January 2026), or 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components (for tests taken from 21 January 2026 onwards)
• Pearson PTE Academic: 61 overall, with no component below 59

Pre-sessional English

The length of the Pre-sessional English course depends on your current level of English language ability. The course is available on campus or online, and the length ranges from 6 to 40 weeks, depending on your IELTS score or equivalent qualification.