Medical Science (CIMR)

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK 2:1 Honours Degree.

Months of entry

January, April, October

Course content

The Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR) is one of the leading research institutions in the UK and provides a unique interface between clinical and basic biomedical science, aiming to understand the cellular basis of disease. Forty per cent of our researchers are clinically active, and we have a demonstrated record of translating our basic research into successful clinical application.

Our researchers use cell biology to understand the molecular mechanisms of disease and conversely use genetic disease to reveal crucial mechanisms of cell biology. Although our research has particular strengths in key cell processes (membrane trafficking and protein folding) as well as biological areas (immune system and neuronal function), an important asset at CIMR is the breadth of disease areas that our research impinges on, and it is this that allows us to reveal fundamental principles of disease and infection. Crucial to this is the use of multiple approaches, including genetics, and cellular and structural biology.

Students at CIMR benefit from a wealth of seminars, core topic sessions and workshops held in CIMR by outstanding world-leading researchers, providing a broad scientific education. Our students receive expert training in state-of-the-art technologies, through our core research facilities and also have diverse opportunities to communicate their research findings and develop collaborative networks at for example the annual CIMR research retreat.

CIMR welcomes applications from graduates to undertake research towards a PhD in any of the labs based in CIMR. We admit those applicants who meet the academic admissions criteria and whose research interests match those of an available member of the academic staff who is willing to act as the student's supervisor. Applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors directly in the first instance, to discuss their application and funding possibilities.

CIMR is also the admissions centre for the Department of Medical Genetics. Applicants wishing to undertake a PhD with a supervisor based in the Department of Medical Genetics outside of CIMR should also apply to the PhD in Medical Science (CIMR) course.

Learning outcomes

At the end of their PhD, students should:

• have a thorough knowledge of the literature and a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods and techniques applicable to their own research;
• be able to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• have developed the ability to critically evaluate current research and research techniques and methodologies;
• have self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems;
• be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and
• have gained oral presentation and scientific writing skills.