University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The PhD in Pharmacy is a research-led programme in which you work on an original project under the supervision of academic staff. Research topics reflect the School of Pharmacy's broad expertise and commonly include drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, formulation and drug delivery, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, clinical pharmacy and optimisation of medicines use, pharmacoepidemiology, and regulatory science.

The core of the programme is an independent research project that leads to a written thesis and viva voce examination. Alongside laboratory or clinical research, you will undertake a tailored programme of training in research methods, statistics, good scientific practice, and transferable skills such as communication and project management. You may also attend seminars, journal clubs and advanced taught modules where appropriate to support your project.

Full‑time students typically complete their research over three to four years, with part‑time registration available subject to agreement with supervisors. Progress is monitored through formal reviews, interim reports and presentations to supervisory panels.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong honours degree (typically an upper second-class degree or higher) in pharmacy, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a closely related subject. A relevant master's degree with a research component is an advantage and may be required for some projects.

Selection is based on academic background, research experience, and the suitability of your proposed project or fit with available supervisors. You will normally be asked to provide a research proposal or statement of research interests, academic transcripts, and references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with the university's postgraduate research admissions requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Pharmacy PhD programme move into a wide range of careers. Many enter academic research and teaching posts, including postdoctoral roles and lectureships. Others find roles in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries in research and development, formulation, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, quality assurance and drug safety.

There are also opportunities in healthcare practice and policy — for example with the NHS, clinical research organisations, public health bodies and regulatory agencies — as well as in consulting, patent law or scientific communication. The programme develops transferable skills valued by employers, including experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing and project leadership.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham's School of Pharmacy offers an established research environment with interdisciplinary expertise spanning fundamental science to clinical practice. You will have access to well‑equipped laboratories, specialist instrumentation and a programme of postgraduate training and development.

Supervisors within the School maintain strong links with local and national healthcare providers, industry partners and research networks, providing opportunities for collaborative projects and real‑world impact. The university supports doctoral researchers through dedicated supervisory teams, research training, funding opportunities and a vibrant postgraduate community.

Studying at Nottingham places you in a research-active faculty with a commitment to translating scientific advances into better medicines and patient care, making it a suitable setting for PhD candidates aiming for careers in both academia and industry.