Program Overview

PhD Molecular Medicine

Overview

The PhD Molecular Medicine is a postgraduate research course offered by the University of Essex. The course is based in the School of Life Sciences and covers a wide spectrum of biology from genes to ecosystems. The broad-based structure of the course provides opportunities for developing novel ideas and interdisciplinary projects.

• Research areas include:
  • Cancer and stem cell biology
  • Viruses and infection
  • Basic and reproductive immunology
  • Translational and clinical proteomics
  • Drug design
  • Genomics and computational biology
• Many projects are in collaboration with the NHS and regional hospitals.
• The course offers world-class supervision and training opportunities, and encourages students to engage with other researchers, professionals, practitioners, and research users.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A good honours degree or a Masters degree, or equivalent, in a related subject.
• A well-developed research proposal is also essential.
• Students will normally be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

International & EU Entry Requirements

• The University accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, or equivalent, with a score of 5.5 in all other components.

Structure

Course Structure

• A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, giving students the chance to investigate their chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding.
• The PhD programme is usually three to four years' duration.
• All students are initially registered as MPhil students, then transfer to the PhD in the first half of their second year of study if they have made satisfactory progress.

Assessment

• The aim of undertaking the PhD is to train students to become independent researchers who can critically assess research work, and who have a comprehensive understanding of at least one area of biology.
• Students attend two formal supervisory board meetings each year, where they submit literature reviews and research reports to the Board members.

Dissertation

• The PhD thesis is generally completed within three to four years and has a maximum length of 80,000 words.
• Great importance is given to the completion of PhDs within a four-year period from the time of initial registration.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

• Ł5,006 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

International Fee

• Ł22,550 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Scholarships and Financial Support

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

What's Next

Open Days

• The University holds Open Days for all applicants throughout the year.
• The Colchester Campus events are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex.

Applying

• Students can apply for the postgraduate course online.
• Before applying, students should check the information about necessary documents that will be required as part of the application.
• The University aims to respond to applications within four weeks.

Visit Colchester Campus

• The Colchester Campus is set within 200 acres of award-winning parkland.
• The campus is located two miles from the historic city centre of Colchester and is easily reached from London and Stansted Airport in under one hour.