Modern genetics research seeks to provide a systems-level understanding of biology by relating genome sequence to function and phenotype. The research in the Department of Genetics covers a wide spectrum of biological problems, united by the application of genetics tools and approaches. Research themes range from understanding basic mechanisms in cell biology relating to the mechanics of division, migration, and communication through the large-scale analysis of genome regulation and epigenetic control, to aspects of population biology focused on issues of ecological, evolutionary, and human health significance and infectious disease.

Applicants must contact prospective supervisors to discuss potential projects before making a formal application; applicants who have not done this are unlikely to receive full consideration. Prospective students must then indicate their potential Supervisor(s) on their application form. Supervisors and their research areas are listed on the Department of Genetics website on the Research Groups pages. 

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Modern genetics research seeks to provide a systems-level understanding of biology by relating genome sequence to function and phenotype. The research in the Department of Genetics covers a wide spectrum of biological problems, united by the application of genetics tools and approaches. Research themes range from understanding basic mechanisms in cell biology relating to the mechanics of division, migration, and communication through the large-scale analysis of genome regulation and epigenetic control to aspects of population biology focused on issues of ecological, evolutionary, human health significance, and infectious disease.

It is mandatory for applicants to contact prospective supervisors to discuss potential projects before making a formal application; applicants who have not done this are unlikely to receive full consideration. Prospective students must then indicate their potential Supervisor(s) on their application form. Supervisors and their research areas are listed on the Department of Genetics website on the Research Groups pages. 

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From the School of the Biological Sciences

The Cambridge Biosciences DTP is a four year fully-funded PhD programme that aims to create highly skilled and employable people. The programme offers training across 23 University Departments/Institutes and 3 Partner Institutes providing access to a wide range of research areas related to the strategic themes of the BBSRC. We offer three types of DTP studentships:

• DTP Standard
• Targeted
• iCase

During the programme, DTP Standard and Targeted students will undertake two ten-week rotations in different labs before commencing their PhD. They will receive training in a variety of areas including but not limited to statistics, programming, ethics, data analysis, scientific writing and public engagement. Students will also undertake a 12-week internship (PIPS).

iCase students are not required to undertake rotations but may do so if they feel that this training would be useful. They must undertake a placement with their Industrial Partner for a minimum of three months and a maximum of 18 months.

Students will be expected to submit their thesis at the end of the fourth year.

Part-time study, whilst not the norm, may be viable, depending on the project, and will be considered on a case by case basis so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study.

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From the Faculty of Clinical Medicine

The Cambridge Medical Research Council's Doctoral Training Programme will be offering five Industrial MRC CASE (iCASE) studentships for doctoral study, to start in October 2025, and these can be based in either the School of Clinical Medicine, or the School of Biological Sciences.

Each studentship is fully-funded for four years, to include a stipend, all course fees, plus a research training support grant. 

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