University College London, University of London

What you'll study

Doctoral training is laboratory-based and centred on an original research project under the guidance of a primary supervisor and a supervision team. Research topics provide mechanistic insight at multiple scales and timeframes — from milliseconds to evolutionary timescales — and may address topics from Alzheimer’s disease to neuronal connectivity. Students participate in regular lab meetings, project presentations, journal clubs, student symposia and departmental seminars; they also attend externally organised international symposia, conferences and workshops.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold at least an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard, or a recognised Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. English language requirements and an ATAS statement may apply for eligible candidates. International applicants can check country-specific equivalencies via UCL’s guidance; applications must meet the stated UK-class equivalency (e.g. upper second-class).

Career prospects

Graduates typically pursue postdoctoral posts and careers in higher education or continue in scientific research. Others move into roles such as consulting, teaching or related fields. UCL research training and the departmental network, together with proximity to institutes like the Francis Crick Institute and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, support networking and employability; recent students from the department have been awarded honours such as the Beddington Medal.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The course page does not list specific scholarships; prospective applicants should explore UCL central funding, departmental studentships and external fellowships, and contact Graduate Admissions or the UCL Doctoral School for advice on funding routes and deadlines. Competitive funding opportunities are commonly available for well-qualified research students in UK institutions.