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Postgraduate Study

Course closed for this cycle: Biological Science (BioSCaPe) is no longer accepting applications for this cycle. It is expected to re-open for new applications in early September.

The BioSCaPe PhD programme is a four year fully-funded doctoral training programme that aims to develop future leaders in bioscience. Based within the world-class South Cambridgeshire bioscience cluster, the programme combines cutting-edge research with entrepreneurial and leadership training. Students will undertake their research in the University of Cambridge or one of its Partner Institutions – the Babraham Institute, Wellcome Sanger Institute, or the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology – and benefit from unique academic–industry collaboration through placements with their Industrial Partner (for a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 18 months) and projects with companies and research parks.

BioSCaPe offers comprehensive training in areas such as bioinformatics, AI, machine learning, and business innovation, alongside optional cross-disciplinary modules. Students will have access to bespoke leadership programmes, industry immersion opportunities, and a supportive supervisory network.

The programme fosters innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship.

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

Part-time study, whilst not the norm, will be considered on a case by case basis.


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 the events pages.

Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend BioSCaPe's Postgraduate Open Day, usually held in early April. Dates are published on the BioSCaPe website.


Departments

This course is advertised in the following departments:

Key Information


Michaelmas 2026 (Closed)
Applications open
Sep. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Feb. 26, 2026
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2026
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 15, 2025

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2026, Lent 2027 and Easter 2027.