Program Overview

Program Overview

The Cancer and Genomic Sciences PhD / MSc (Res) program at the University of Birmingham is a research-based degree that equips students with the essential skills needed to contribute to both discovery and translational research in the areas of cancer, genome biology, rare diseases, bioinformatics, and health data science.

Course Structure

• The PhD program can be undertaken full-time (minimum 36 months) or part-time (minimum 72 months).
• Applications are accepted all year round, with the largest intake in October.
• Following completion of the minimum period of study, students normally transfer to a thesis awaited status (maximum 12 months).
• To successfully progress into the next year, students need to pass an Annual Progress Review (APR).

Year One

• As part of the APR, students are required to submit a progress review form plus a project report based on the first year of research.
• Students are asked to review their Development Needs Analysis form to identify important areas for development.
• The APR meeting takes place with two academics, one of whom will be an expert in the student's area of research.

Course Highlights

• By pursuing the PhD/MSc by Research, students gain high-quality research training that enables them to conduct independent investigative research with confidence and expertise.
• Studying in the Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences means joining a vibrant community of 100 postgraduate research students covering a diverse range of topics, including:
  • Molecular Cancer Cell Biology
  • Genomics and Genome Biology
  • Genetics and Biology of Rare Diseases
  • Bioinformatics & Health Data Science

Research Projects

• At Birmingham, students can apply for an advertised PhD or propose their own research.
• An advertised PhD is typically part of an established research project and is usually funded by the University or another funding body.
• If students want to pursue their own research project, they can apply to the research programs to propose this, which is self-funded, although scholarships are available.

Find an Advertised PhD

• Students can find a PhD project that suits their interests by using the FindAPhD tool.

Find a Supervisor

• If students prefer to propose their own research, the first step is to find a supervisor.
• They are encouraged to browse the biographies of faculty members to familiarize themselves with the research going on in their preferred areas.

Research Themes

The Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences offers a diverse range of research areas in the following themes:

• Genome Structure and Regulation
• DNA Replication, Stability and Repair
• Translational Biology and Genetics
• Bioinformatics & Health Data Science
• Surgical Oncology

Entry Requirements

• To gain a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course.
• The application will be reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether the application should receive an offer.
• Additional requirements for international students include:
  • 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject area
  • English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band

Fees and Scholarships

• The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, supervision, assessment, and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
• Fees for 2026 entry are:
  • £5,181 (full-time)
  • £2,591 (part-time)
• A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants.

Application Process

• To apply for a postgraduate research program, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online.
• If applying to an 'advertised PhD', please check the details of the specific research project for application deadlines.
• If submitting their own research proposal, applications are accepted all year round, but students are encouraged to apply by 1 June for a September start.

Career Opportunities

• A PhD is the highest level of academic achievement available and vital for the continued professional development of scientists.
• Completing a PhD at Birmingham will extend students' knowledge base in their chosen subject, as well as enhancing their problem-solving and analytical, communication and teaching, and leadership and management skills.
• Many postgraduate research students continue in academia as Research Fellows/Postdoctoral Researchers, or pursue other scientific-related disciplines.

Careers Network

• At Birmingham, researchers are prepared to make an impact across every sector of society.
• The Careers Network offers a range of events and support services, including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs, and links with leading graduate recruiters.

Student Experience

• At Birmingham, students' university experience isn't just about studying; they have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life.
• The university offers a variety of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, as well as all the support and advice students need.

Accommodation

• As a postgraduate researcher, students have a variety of choices of accommodation, including dedicated postgraduate halls or private accommodation close to campus.

Living in Birmingham

• Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry.

Campus Life

• The green and spacious campus is the place where the community comes together to learn, relax, and socialize.

Student Support

• Whoever students are and wherever they come from, the university is committed to providing the best possible support to all students so that they can get the most out of their university experience.