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Postgraduate Study

The programme is designed to develop future leaders in medical research by providing rigorous scientific training, access to advanced technologies, and close mentorship from internationally recognised investigators. The research covers the whole spectrum of medical science, from fundamental disease biology and translational medicine through to clinical therapies.

In addition to hands-on research training within their host lab, PhD students benefit from a rich programme of departmental and university-wide development opportunities, including:

  • Postgraduate workshops focused on advanced research techniques and experimental design

  • Research seminars held across the Biomedical Campus and wider University, featuring leading scientists from Cambridge and beyond

  • Skills-focused seminars covering essential topics such as scientific writing, publishing, intellectual property, entrepreneurship, and thesis preparation

Candidates wishing to take a shorter course of research and write a thesis for the master's after one year may apply for the MPhil in Medical Sciences.

Learning outcomes

In addition to hands-on research training within their host lab, PhD students benefit from a rich programme of departmental and university-wide development opportunities, including:

  • Postgraduate workshops focused on advanced research techniques and experimental design

  • Research seminars held across the Biomedical Campus and wider University, featuring leading scientists from Cambridge and beyond

  • Skills-focused seminars covering essential topics such as scientific writing, publishing, intellectual property, entrepreneurship, and thesis preparation


Continuing

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil at the level of a Pass will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.


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.

Apply Now

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
May. 13, 2027
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
Jan. 6, 2027
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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