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Postgraduate Study

About the Department of Genetics

The Department of Genetics hosts between 50 and 65 postgraduate students across some 25 research groups,researching a wide range of biological problems, from population genetics and ecology to the detailed analysis of genome sequence.

2 courses offered in the Department of Genetics

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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2 courses also advertised in the Department of Genetics

From the School of the Biological Sciences

Awaiting Approval

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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Department Members


Professor Steven Russell
Head of Department

Dr. Cahir O’Kane
Head of Postgraduate Education

  • 22 Academic Staff
  • 52 Postdoctoral Researchers
  • 65 Graduate Students
  • 31 Undergraduates

http://www.gen.cam.ac.uk/

Research Areas