PhD Postgraduate Research in Biological Sciences

Overview

The PhD in Biological Sciences at the University of Wolverhampton offers a collegiate research environment with first-class facilities. Our programme is distinguished by expert supervision from leading researchers, with each supervisory team including at least one academic with a proven track record of successful PhD completions.

Award

• PhD

Start Date

• Variable start date

UCAS Code

• [Insert UCAS Code]

Course Specifications

• View course spec

Course Length

• Full-time (4 years), Part-time (8 years)

Campus Location

• University: City Campus

School

• School of Life Sciences

UCAS Points Calculator

• Open Points Calculator

Why Choose This Course?

PhD Supervisor

• Dr Mark Morris leads a research group within the Research Institute of Healthcare Science (RIHS) investigating the molecular biology and genetics of cancer development.

Research Excellence

• Our PhD programme stands out for its comprehensive research support and exceptional supervision. Students benefit from:
  • Expert Supervision: Regular meetings with supervisors who are leading experts in their fields
  • Collegiate Environment: Dedicated postgraduate research spaces and access to the Harrison Learning Centre
  • Research Excellence: State-of-the-art laboratories and specialist research facilities
  • Professional Development: Regular colloquia presentations within the School of Life Sciences
  • Comprehensive Training: Access to Faculty and Doctoral College research development programmes

What's Unique About This Course?

• Research Excellence Framework Recognition: Benefit from supervision by REF-recognised academic staff who are actively contributing to biological sciences research
• Dedicated Research Facilities: Access our modern laboratories and the Harrison Learning Centre's extensive digital resources and databases
• Expert Supervision Model: Each student has a supervisory team including at least one academic with proven PhD completion track record
• Flexible Development Opportunities: Unique chance to develop teaching skills through involvement in undergraduate modules, enhancing your academic portfolio
• Collaborative Research Environment: Regular research colloquia within the School of Life Sciences, fostering peer learning and networking
• Comprehensive Support Structure: Individual research support complemented by Faculty and Doctoral College training programmes
• Industry Connections: Strong links with biotechnology companies and research institutions, providing networking and collaboration opportunities
• International Research Community: Join a diverse research community with opportunities to present at our annual University Research Conference

What Happens on the Course?

The programme follows three key milestones:

1. Registration

• Submit an online 'Expression of Interest'
• Receive guidance on research proposal development
• Interview with potential supervisors
• Final approval by Faculty Research Committee (FRC)

2. Progression (18 months full-time/36 months part-time)

• Submit a detailed progress paper
• Present research achievements and future plans
• Independent assessment of progress
• FRC review and recommendations

3. Examination

• Submit doctoral thesis
• Oral examination (viva voce)
• Assessment by qualified examiners (minimum one external)
• Final award recommendation

Research Training and Support

Students receive comprehensive support through:

• Regular supervisory meetings
• Research skills workshops
• Access to specialist databases
• Electronic resources
• Presentation opportunities
• Teaching skills development

Potential Career Paths

• Research Scientist
• Bioinformatics Specialist
• Biotechnology Product Manager
• Biostatistician
• Scientific Writer/Editor

Entry Requirements

• Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:
  • A first or upper second class honours degree, or
  • A master’s degree, or
  • Evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.
• For an applicant whose entry award was not delivered in English, or non-native speaker of English shall be required to demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score of 7.0 (no less than 6.5 in any component) or its equivalent.

Funding

• Financial support for research study:
  • Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.
• Government loans (Home Fee Status):
  • Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £30,301, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.
• Self-funded:
  • We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.
• Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:
  • To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.
• Research councils:
  • The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.
• University Research Studentships:
  • The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.
• Other sources:
  • Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

Course Fees and Finance

Location	Mode	Fee	Year
Home	Full-time	£4786 per year
Home	Full-time	£5006 per year
Home	Part-time	£2393 per year
Home	Part-time	£2503 per year
International	Full-time	£15950 per year
International	Full-time	£16950 per year

Research Areas

We welcome research proposals in areas including:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Genetics
• Environmental Biology
• Biotechnology
• Microbiology

What Skills Will You Gain?

In addition to the regular supervision provided by supervisors, our PhD students will also be provided with training opportunities by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the University’s Doctoral College.

• University Research Conference – The University Research Conference is held in June for research active staff and PhD students to showcase their areas of research and exchange research initiatives. Research students are welcome to make presentations during their period of study. Research students are also encouraged to disseminate final results of their research prior to submission.
• University Research Training - Students are encouraged to participate in training provided by the Doctoral College not only because of its intrinsic value but also because these sessions may facilitate meetings with post-graduates outside the school.
• Teaching Skills Development - At the Wolverhampton School of Sciences, we understand that postgraduate research students wish to develop their academic CVs while with us. For this reason, research students are provided the opportunity to undergo teaching skills development. The Wolverhampton School of Sciences seeks to ensure, wherever possible, that PhD students have the opportunity to teach on relevant undergraduate modules.

Through your research journey, you'll develop:

• Advanced research methodologies
• Specialist laboratory techniques
• Academic writing and publication skills
• Project management capabilities
• Teaching and presentation abilities
• Data analysis expertise
• Independent research capabilities

University of Wolverhampton

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Overview:

The University of Wolverhampton is a public university located in Wolverhampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses. The university is known for its strong focus on student support and its commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience.

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Services Offered:

The University of Wolverhampton offers a variety of services to its students, including:

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The university provides academic support services such as tutoring, writing workshops, and study skills development.

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Students have access to a range of support services, including disability support, mature student support, and career guidance.

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The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

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Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.

Library:

The university library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.

Gym:

The university has a gym with a variety of facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and sports courts.

Students' Union:

The Students' Union provides a range of services and activities for students, including social events, clubs, and societies.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Wolverhampton can expect a vibrant and supportive campus environment. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a number of facilities and services to support student life, including a gym, a Students' Union, and a library.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Student Support:

The university is known for its strong focus on student support, with a range of services available to help students succeed.

Affordable Living:

The university offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

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The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with experienced lecturers and modern facilities.

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The University of Wolverhampton offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts, Business, and Social Sciences:

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Other:

The university has a strong commitment to research, with a number of research centers and institutes. The university also has a strong international focus, with a number of programs and services for international students.