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Postgraduate Study

The Institute of Metabolic Science - Metabolic Research Laboratories (IMS-MRL) is now offering a new taught MPhil in Obesity, Endocrinology and Metabolism which comprises a large research component. We advise potential MPhil applicants to apply for this taught MPhil https://www.mrl.ims.cam.ac.uk/study-us/taught-mphil.

Applications to this MPhil by research will only be considered in specific circumstances or for those wishing to study part-time. Please contact the department to discuss if you should apply for this research MPhil (Metabolism_MPhil@medschl.cam.ac.uk)

Students receive training in scientific laboratory skills and methods appropriate to the project. Postgraduate students also attend regular IMS-MRL lectures and weekly seminars given by local, national and international speakers. All students are encouraged to attend appropriate training courses provided by the University Postgraduate School of Life Sciences. Students have opportunities to present their work at group meetings and seminars within the IMS-MRL as well as at conferences and symposia.

There is an energetic student community at the IMS-MRL that organises regular events such as a student journal club and an annual student symposium.

The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

  • to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and
  • to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

  • a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
  • demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
  • shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
  • demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.

Continuing

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.

All cases are judged on their own merits based on a number of factors including evidence of progress and research potential; a sound research proposal; the availability of a suitable supervisor, full funding and resources required for the research; and acceptance by the Head of Department and Degree Committee.


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

Apply Now

Key Information


12 months full-time

2 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Master of Philosophy

Department of Clinical Biochemistry

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Oct. 2, 2025
Course Starts
Jan. 5, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2026
Course Starts
April 17, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Michaelmas 2026

Applications open
Sept. 3, 2025
Application deadline
April 15, 2026
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Applications open
Sept. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Oct. 1, 2026
Course Starts
Jan. 5, 2027

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Applications open
Sept. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2027
Course Starts
April 17, 2027

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 2, 2025
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 15, 2025

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas , Lent and Easter .


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