Program Overview

PhD Cell and Molecular Biology

Overview

The PhD Cell and Molecular Biology is a research-based program that allows students to investigate their chosen topic in depth and reach a profound understanding. The program is based in the School of Life Sciences, which covers a wide spectrum of biology from genes to ecosystems. Students have the opportunity to develop novel ideas and interdisciplinary projects, and are supervised by expert staff in all areas of cell and molecular biology.

Research Areas

The School of Life Sciences offers supervision in the following areas:

• Cancer and stem cell biology
• Immunology
• Medical microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Structural biology
• Chromatin structure
• Epigenetics
• Cell signalling

Program Structure

The program is available full-time or part-time, and can be started in October, January, or April. The duration of the program is 3-4 years, and students are required to submit a thesis of up to 80,000 words.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

Students require a good Masters degree or equivalent in a related subject, as well as a well-developed research proposal. If students do not have a Masters degree, they may be eligible for the four-year integrated PhD program.

International & EU Entry Requirements

The university accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. Students are advised to contact the university for more information on the qualifications that are accepted.

English Language Requirements

If English is not the student's first language, they are required to have an IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum component score of 5.5.

Structure

Course Structure

The program does not have a taught structure, allowing students to investigate their chosen topic in depth. Students attend two formal supervisory board meetings each year, where they submit literature reviews and research reports to the board members.

Assessment

Students are assessed through their thesis and supervisory board meetings. The thesis is generally completed within 3-4 years and has a maximum length of 80,000 words.

Dissertation

The aim of the program is to train students to become independent researchers who can critically assess research work and have a comprehensive understanding of at least one area of biology.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

The fee for home/UK students is Ł5,006 per year.

International Fee

The fee for international students is Ł22,550 per year.

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the program.

What's Next

Open Days

The university holds open days for all applicants throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity for students to find out more about studying at the university and to meet with staff and students.

Applying

Students can apply for the program online. Before applying, students are advised to check the university's website for information on necessary documents and to contact the graduate administrator within their chosen department or school.

Visit Colchester Campus

The Colchester Campus is set within 200 acres of award-winning parkland and is easily accessible from London and Stansted Airport.

Related Courses

MSc (by Dissertation) Cell and Molecular Biology

This program is available full-time or part-time and is based in the School of Life Sciences. Students have the opportunity to develop novel ideas and interdisciplinary projects, and are supervised by expert staff in all areas of cell and molecular biology.