University of Essex

PhD Cell and Molecular Biology

University of EssexColchester Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

The PhD Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Essex provides students with the opportunity to develop ideas and pursue an independent research project under expert supervision in the School of Life Sciences. Students will engage with advanced topics such as cell signalling, cancer and stem cell biology, immunology, medical microbiology, structural biology, and epigenetics, and they will develop their own thesis in one of these areas. They also have access to a comprehensive range of facilities for cellular and molecular biology research.

The programme assessment is centred on students' research output and doctoral thesis, together with regular supervisory meetings and progression reviews, rather than conventional taught modules. The University offers training in professional and research skills through its Proficio scheme to support students’ development as researchers, and they get to engage with other researchers, professionals, practitioners, and research users.

Entry requirements

  • IELTS: 6 — 6.0 IELTS 6.0 (5.5 minimum component score)

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

After completing a PhD Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Essex, graduates may pursue careers such as:

  • Academic Researcher 
  • Clinical Research Scientist  
  • Specialist in Biotech or Pharmaceutical companies
  • Technical Expert 
  • Healthcare Laboratory Manager

Cost of study

For the PhD Cell and Molecular Biology in the University of Essex, the full-time tuition fee for international students is £22,550 per year. Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

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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