Dental Sciences PhD / MPhil
The School of Dentistry's broad range of research interests provides for world-class research in dental science including clinical and dental education research. We have developed a strategy with the aim of developing high-quality research to improve health outcomes in the local population, and to help face global health challenges.
Why study with us?
The collaborative atmosphere within the Institute which has enabled me to benefit not only from the knowledge and guidance of my supervisors, but also from the wider research community.
James Hyde - Dental Science PhD student
309
academic members of staff
359
registered postgraduate research students
Overview
Situated within one of the UK’s larger Schools of Dentistry, undertaking a PhD in Dental Sciences at Liverpool gives PhD candidates a unique opportunity to work alongside an engaged and committed cohort of Dental Students all of whom are encouraged to take an interest in research and the development of medical education, for the improvement of systems and processes for future generations of students.
The University of Liverpool’s School of Dentistry is one of the largest Dental education providers in the UK. We train and develop clinicians throughout their careers, enabling them to use the latest advances to provide exceptional care to their patients.
We deliver teaching and training for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as continuous professional development for clinical practitioners. Joining our department involves you in this vibrant medical education community.
We work collaboratively; across professions, institutions and departments. We have strong links with health partners across the region . Our PhD students could be based across a wide range of providers (e.g. Alder Hey Children Hospital, Primary Care Dental Practices).
Research themes
Biomedical and Clinical Research
- Primary prevention
- Health Service research
- Oral Health Inequalities
- Common Risk Factors
- Oral Health Promotion and Education
- Digital innovation
- Non-invasive clinical techniques
- Hard tissue and soft tissue research
- Advanced functional materials
- Biotic and abiotic model systems
- Mechanisms and novel therapies in chronic pain and inflammation
Medical/Dental Education
- Programmatic approaches; validity
- Innovative uses of technology to enhance learning
- Student: staff partnerships
- Psychosocial development and transitions
Facilities
We have state of the art, dedicated research facilities within the School of Dentistry.
We have bright, open-plan laboratories, containing state-of-the-art equipment for tissue culture, imaging technologies, microscopy, and other disciplines.
We also have strong connections with the Liverpool Head & Neck Centre, utilising their facilities to bolster our research capability.
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 |
|
| Part time | 4-6 years | £2,393 |
|
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 or a master's degree in an appropriate scence subject, preferably relevant to the area of interest, is required.
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 Language | Grade C |
| Cambridge IGCSE as a Second Language | Grade 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
Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal
Find a supervisor
View supervisors in this area
Professor Sondos Albadri - Oral Health
Professor Fadi Jarad - Dental Innovation
Professor Luke Dawson - Dental Education
Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us
Related studentships: self-funded and funded PhD projects
Find a scholarship
We offer a range of scholarships to help you meet the costs of studying a research degree.