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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

Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.

Virtual Postgraduate Open Days

The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.

Events for international students

Join us for Q&A webinars, funding webinars or get in touch with our regional managers. Find out more about events for international students.

For more information about all upcoming events visit our events pages.

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Key Information


Lent 2027
Applications open
Sep. 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.
Easter 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2025
Application deadline
Jan. 13, 2027
Course starts
Apr. 5, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Michaelmas 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Lent 2028
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Sep. 30, 2027
Course starts
Jan. 5, 2028
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Easter 2028
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Jan. 13, 2028
Course starts
Apr. 17, 2028
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 14, 2026

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2027, Lent 2028 and Easter 2028.

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