University College London, University of London

Programme overview

This doctoral research degree trains students in advanced bioprocessing and translational biotechnology within UCL Biochemical Engineering’s Industrial Doctoral Training Centre. You will undertake independent research aligned with areas such as environment and sustainability, genomics-enabled processes, affordable therapeutics, processing of complex biological materials, and improving process development precision and rate. Study modes include full-time and part-time; standard full-time duration is 3 calendar years. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and should be submitted at least three months before your intended start; typical start months listed include October, February and May. A UK tuition fee figure is published for domestic students.

What you'll study

Your work is research-led rather than module-based: you’ll carry out an original PhD project supervised by UCL academics and often co-developed with industrial partners. Projects leverage UCL’s laboratories and near-industrial bioprocessing equipment, including robotic systems and larger-scale facilities. Research sits within the department’s broad bioprocessing portfolio and connects to collaborations with over 80 companies and organisations from the bioprocess sector.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need at least an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree, or a UK Master’s degree, in life or physical sciences or engineering, or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard. Relevant industrial experience may be considered. English language requirements and ATAS clearance apply where relevant. International equivalencies and country-specific admissions information are available from UCL Graduate Admissions.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into highly skilled roles in industry—scientist, process engineer, R&D specialist or commercial analyst—across biopharmaceuticals, cell and gene therapy and sustainable biotechnology. Recent employer destinations include major companies named by the department. Other graduates continue in academia through postdoctoral positions and university posts.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Many doctoral projects are funded through UKRI and EPSRC awards and the department’s Industrial Doctoral Training Centre. A large number of research opportunities are co-sponsored or partnered with industry, providing routes to funded studentships and collaborative support; applicants are encouraged to consult UCL Biochemical Engineering for current funded openings and industrially linked projects.