Biological Sciences (Functional and Comparative Genomics) PhD / MPhil

Each organism, whether animal, plant or microbe, is defined by its genome and this same information can be used by us to investigate wide ranging biological phenomena and even alter biology itself through the production of transgenic organisms.

Why study with us?

  • £17.5m

    research grant funding awarded in a two year period.

  • 160

    PhD and master's students.

Overview

Our research spans the biological sciences from genes and their regulation to whole organisms and ecosystems. We work with viruses, bacteria, fungi, animals, insects, plants and humans using state-of-the-art technologies, bioinformatics and mathematical models.

Comparative genomics represents the analysis of DNA sequences from different organisms, allowing us to understand how individuals differ or species have diverged.

This approach underpins studies ranging from evolutionary and population biology to the analysis of changes that result in cancer development or the identification of critical genetic factors relevant to personalised medicine.

Functional genomics is the application of DNA sequence data to determine how organisms and specific processes work, whether through the identification of specific genes, monitoring gene expression globally (transcriptomics and proteomics) or facilitating the direct analysis and manipulation of specific genes and proteins.

Our research aims to understand how biological systems are functionally integrated within the context of the whole organism using the most recent advances in genomic and post genomic technologies.

We have a proven track record and leading expertise in the use of Next Generation DNA sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics, digital and array-based transcriptomics, proteomics, computational modelling, whole organism and cell imaging, conventional physiology and molecular biology and classical genetics.

These are combined to unravel the evolution, physiology, biochemistry and genetics of complex biological systems.

As an institute devoted to integrative biology, we span the range of biosciences from the fine-scale resolution of biomolecular structure through the genome-wide analysis of cells and organisms, to the evolution and ecology of organisms in their natural environment.

Underpinning this diversity, we offer world-class facilities and infrastructure for research, and superb links to internationally excellent partners in both the academic and industrial sectors.

Our research seeks to answer fundamental questions, and to address key issues of contemporary concern. We were awarded a prize in the UK-wide BBSRC 2011 ‘Excellence with Impact’ competition, which commended the work of our graduate students in impact activities.

Our PhD completion rates are ranked amongst the highest in the UK by the Times Higher Education Supplement, one of only two Universities to have repeatedly ranked in the top four institutions. Furthermore, our complementary training programme was awarded the highest grade in the QAA review of all HEI PGR training. In addition, the institute is one of only 10 organisations in UK universities in 2017 to hold a gold AthenaSWAN award for gender equality in science education and research.

Our PhD programme is financed by substantial training grants from the main UK government Research Councils, including the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Natural Environment Research Council and The Medical Research Council, as well as charitable trusts, such as North West Cancer Research, Wellcome Trust, overseas governments and industrial collaborators.

We particularly welcome research proposals that match those of our researchers, including:

  • Genomic analysis of pathogens
  • Environmental microbiology and virology
  • Gene expression, regulation and cell signalling mechanisms
  • Animal physiology
  • Molecular toxicology
  • Bionanotechnology
  • Plant breeding and biotechnology.

Training

PhD students can take taught modules - on either a formal basis with exams taken and a record of completion generated or less formally. Commonly, students use the opportunity to upskill in areas like bioinformatics and statistics, but modules on defined areas of biology are also available. A wide variety of further development opportunities are available from the PGR Development Hub

Facilities

  • The Centre for Genomic Research
  • The GeneMill Synthetic Biology Laboratory
  • The Computational Biology Facility
  • The Centre for Cell Imaging
  • The Centre for Proteome Research

Study options and fees


The fees below reflect one year of study during the 2024/25 academic year

MPhil / PhD Duration UK students International Students
Full time 2-4 years £4,786
  • Faculty of Health and Life Sciences £29,750 (Band A)^
  • Faculty of Science and Engineering* £29,750 (Band A)^ or £23,400 (Band B)
  • Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences £23,400 (Band B)
Part time 4-6 years £2,393
  • Faculty of Health and Life Sciences £14,900 (Band A)^
  • Faculty of Science and Engineering* £14,900 (Band A)^ or £11,700 (Band B)
  • Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences £11,700 (Band B)

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.


Entry requirements

A good (2:1 or above) Honours first degree in an appropriate science subject is required as a minimum, which, preferably, will be relevant to the area of interest.

English language requirements

IELTS Academic requirement - SELT and non-SELT Overall 6.5 no band below 5.5
TOEFL iBT requirement Minimum 88 overall with L 17 W 17 R 17 and S 19
C1 Advanced CAE requirement Overall 176 with no less than 162 in any paper
Trinity College London, Integrated Skills in English (ISE II)ISE II with an overall pass with merit in components
Cambridge IGCSE as a First LanguageGrade C
Cambridge IGCSE as a Second LanguageGrade B
Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Proficiency)Overall 176 with 162 in components
Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced)Overall 176 with 162 in components
Cambridge English Level 2 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced)Overall 176 with 162 in components

How to apply

Research degree applications can be made online.  You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.

Applications are open all year round.

More about applying for research degrees

Apply online

Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal


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