City

What you'll study

The PhD is an independent, research-led programme focused on delivering a substantial original thesis. Candidates work on a specific project under the supervision of academic staff, developing expertise in a chosen area such as molecular and cell biology, physiology, neuroscience, microbiology, systems biology or computational/bioinformatic approaches. Typical components of the programme include:

• Design and execution of a sustained research project, including experimental planning, data collection and analysis.
• Training in specialist laboratory techniques appropriate to the project, for example molecular cloning, microscopy, flow cytometry, omics technologies or in silico modelling.
• Formal and informal training in research methods, statistics, data management, scientific writing and research ethics.
• Participation in journal clubs, seminars and department research meetings to develop critical appraisal and presentation skills.
• Development of transferable skills such as grant writing, project management and public engagement; opportunities to gain teaching experience where available.
• Submission of a doctoral thesis describing original research and an oral viva voce examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (for example an MSc or equivalent) with demonstrated research experience. Strong candidates will have evidence of practical laboratory or computational skills appropriate to the proposed project, a clear research proposal or statement of research interests, and academic references that speak to research potential.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview and asked to discuss their research plans and experience. Entry is assessed on the basis of academic record, research fit with available supervisors, and the feasibility of the proposed project and funding arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates from a Life Science PhD typically move into careers that require advanced research skills and subject knowledge. Common pathways include:

• Academic research and teaching, including postdoctoral positions leading to academic posts.
• Research and development roles in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical technology companies.
• Clinical and translational research roles in hospitals, research institutes and clinical trials organisations.
• Data science, bioinformatics and computational biology roles in industry and government.
• Regulatory affairs, science policy, intellectual property and scientific publishing.
• Entrepreneurship and roles in innovation management or commercialisation of research.

Why study at City

City is located in central London, providing easy access to a wide range of hospitals, research institutes and life-science companies, which supports collaborative and translational research opportunities. The university promotes interdisciplinary research and offers structured researcher development programmes that cover technical, professional and career skills. Students benefit from accessible supervision, well-equipped laboratories and a postgraduate research community with regular seminars and networking activities. Support services include facilities for research integrity and data management, grant application advice and career development support for PhD candidates aiming for both academic and non-academic careers.