University of Essex

PhD Biological Sciences

University of EssexColchester Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

The PhD Biological Sciences at the University of Essex allows students to conduct original research in areas such as biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, marine and environmental science, molecular medicine, environmental microbiology, plant productivity and ecology, covering biology from genes to ecosystems.

Students will be supervised by world-class researchers, work in well-resourced labs like the genome sequencing facility, X-ray Crystallography and Macromolecular Interactions facility, fully automated laboratories with robotic liquid handling systems and equipment for cell culture, molecular biology, and gene editing, and develop high-level research, communication, and academic skills.

Assessment is largely by research thesis, with progress monitored through regular supervisory board meetings, which provide a more formal opportunity to discuss progress and plans for the next six months. This programme is a full-time course with a duration of three to four years.

Entry requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 — 6.5 IELTS 6.5 overall, or equivalent, with a score of 5.5 in all other components.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Loyalty Discount

    First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship

    School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.

    Up to £5,500

  • Global Talent Masters Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.

    Up to £5,000

  • Hugh Brogan Bursary

    If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.

    Up to £2,500

  • Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary

    The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.

    Up to £776

  • Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.

    Up to £6,500

  • Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship

    The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.

    Up to £11,025

  • The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund

    The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.

  • The Essex MBA Dean's Award

    The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.

  • The Ronald J. Hill Fund

    The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.

    Up to £3,000

  • University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates who complete the PhD Biological Sciences from the University of Essex may go on to work in positions such as:

  • Post-doctoral Researcher 
  • Research Scientist in Biotechnology 
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Specialist in Molecular Diagnostics
  • Biotechnologist

Cost of study

International applicants for the PhD Biological Sciences in the University of Essex will pay £22,550 per year for full-time study per year, and the fee will increase annually.

Admission

You can apply directly through the university's online application portal. For personalised help with your application, please speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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