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Postgraduate Study

The Medical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the world's leading research institutes. Discoveries and inventions developed at the LMB, such as DNA sequencing or methods to determine the structure of proteins, have revolutionised all areas of biology. Our scientists work to advance the current knowledge of biological processes at the molecular level. This information will help us to understand the workings of complex systems, such as the immune system and the brain, and solve key problems in human health.

Every year, the LMB International PhD programme welcomes 20–30 postgraduate students from universities worldwide to do cutting-edge research. At the LMB, we aim to train the scientific leaders of the future: We seek engaged and motivated students, give them rewarding research projects, and provide a supportive environment with access to world-class facilities and experts.

Our building is at the heart of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, a hub of one of Europe's largest and most internationally competitive concentrations of healthcare-related talent and enterprise. The LMB building's stunning design is home to a globally competitive research centre with state-of-the-art facilities for making the discoveries of the 21st century.

We have an active student association, founded and run entirely by students, that organises numerous events specifically for postgraduates. Postgraduate students register for their PhD with the University of Cambridge and belong to a Cambridge College.


Continuing

Admission to the PhD programme at the LMB does not require formal completion of an MPhil or equivalent.


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


3-4 years full-time

4-7 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Doctor of Philosophy

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2023
Application deadline
Oct. 2, 2024
Course Starts
Jan. 5, 2025

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

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2023
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2025
Course Starts
April 17, 2025

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

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

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

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.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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