Biological Sciences

Entry requirements

For MPhil

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

or

• Research or professional experience which has resulted in appropriate evidence of achievement

For PhD

• Postgraduate Masters Degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed programme of study

or

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or equivalent award in an appropriate discipline

or

• Research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of achievement

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Biological Sciences.

We offer students either an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) in Biological Sciences or PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) Biological Sciences.

Key features

• A diverse and international postgraduate research community
• Strong and international links with research institutions and organisations
• Strong links with stakeholders e.g., the National Health Service
• Supportive and inclusive learning and research training environment
• Dedicated, state of the art research facilities at our St John’s Campus
• Supervisors involved in cutting-edge research and consultancy in their field
• Tailored supervision and support through the Researcher Development Programme (RDP)

We conduct impactful Biochemistry research that promotes improvements in human disease diagnosis and patient risk stratification. Our specialist multi-national Human Biology research focuses on corroborating links between nutrition and long-term health conditions that impact global health economics. We also have links with industry that enable us to develop novel laboratory workflows and in vitro / in silico modelling systems, and these allow the exploration of deeper research hypotheses regarding molecular and cellular function.

Our Plant Biology research in plant–microbe interactions focus on advancing sustainable crop protection and food security; and our work on small RNAs strengthens understanding of plant immunity. We also conduct impactful translational breeding research that applies molecular markers to develop climate-resilient crops. We also specialise in biological control research focused on reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

Careers

An MPhil and a PhD in Biological Sciences prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including:

• Academic and research roles – contributing to university research and teaching.

• Environmental and conservation science – working with organizations focused on biodiversity and sustainability.

• Healthcare and biomedical research – advancing expertise in human biology and medical sciences.

• Consultancy and policy development – advising organizations on best practices in environmental and biological sciences.

• Agricultural biotechnology and crop improvement – developing resilient crops and sustainable food systems.

• Plant health and protection – working with government, NGOs, and industry on plant disease management and biosecurity.