Entry requirements

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

Months of entry

January, April, October

Course content

Our PhD programme follows the pattern of that of the Faculty of Biology and is a three- or four-year research programme depending on the sponsor. The course is also available via five years of part-time study. Students are accepted in October, January or April.

Students are based in a research group and undertake a research project under the supervision of a principal investigator. A wide range of generic and specific skill courses are available. Students attend induction and safety training run by the Department.

There is no examined coursework but student progression is dependent upon the first-year assessment process where students are required to submit a first-year report and undertake a viva voce examination. Students are only registered for the PhD upon satisfactory performance in the first-year assessment.

In their second year, students present their work as a poster at the Departmental Annual Symposium.

In their final year, students are invited to give a valedictory seminar to the Department upon submission of their thesis.

Assessment for the PhD is by a written thesis and an oral examination.

The course will equip its graduates with a wide range of skills and knowledge. They will receive training in research and the ability to conduct independent research. They will have gained research experience through having planned, executed and evaluated an original investigative piece of work through a major thesis. They will develop the ability to critically appraise scientific literature and to present research data at conferences and seminars. They will cultivate their intellectual skills and develop transferable skills.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • PhD
    part time
    60-84 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    36-48 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Enquiries
Email
gradoffice@path.cam.ac.uk