Four-year funded integrated PhDs in Translational Biomedical Sciences

University of Southampton

The University of Southampton (UoS) and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) are Russell Group universities with world-leading research programmes and are proud to offer Medical Research Council funded doctoral training programme (MRC DTP) PhD studentships. Students are based at UoS or QMUL researching topics, including cancer, neurological, inflammatory or infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, or global health, with a focus on interdisciplinary studies and whole organism, applying state-of-the-art computational and experimental methodologies to medical research, with potential links with industry (iCASE studentship). Our PhD students will join a vibrant student community for a 4-year funded study period beginning in September 2026.

Programme Structure

There are two types of studentships available: MRes/PhD and iCASE.

For MRes/PhD, the programme is 1-year MRes + 3 years PhD. In year 1, you will choose three rotation projects, alongside taught modules, and practical training. In years 2-4, you’ll undertake your PhD, usually developing one of your rotation projects. iCASE students can select their PhD project from year 1.

Find out more about the programme here.

Interested?

For more details and information on how to apply, click on 'Apply' above.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 7th January 2026

Interviews: On or after 23rd February 2026. Candidates interviewed will be asked to give a short presentation on a recent research project they have been involved in.

Our requirements

• Applicants must hold a first class or 2:1 degree in life, physical or mathematical sciences. With a life sciences degree, A-Levels or above in maths, statistics, or computing modules are desirable. With a physics or maths degree, life sciences modules at undergraduate level are essential.
• Skills and knowledge that match your proposed area of doctoral research.
• High motivation and a passion for research.
• Eligibility details and application guidance can be found here.

Inclusivity

The DTP is committed to inclusivity and strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of their personal circumstances. We will select those who display the potential to become, or to support, the world-leading biomedical researchers of the future based on their application and performance at the time of interview. However, we particularly welcome applicants from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, as they are under-represented nationwide in STEM roles.

UoS and QMUL are committed to making Equality, Diversity and Inclusion an integral component of university life. Both institutions hold Athena Swan Silver Awards and are Race Equality Charter signatories. We particularly welcome applications from those from minority ethnic groups, a disadvantaged background or having taken a career break. Flexible study is available and should be discussed at application. University benefits include onsite childcare facilities, state-of-the-art on-campus sports, arts and culture facilities and a full programme of events.