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Postgraduate Study

This is a four-year PhD programme in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) whereby students spend two years at Cambridge and two years at the NIH.

This innovative programme was established in 2002. Its aim is to train outstanding students in biomedical research, taking advantage of the excellent research environments available in Cambridge and at NIH laboratories in the US. Students work on collaborative projects organised by co-supervisors in Cambridge and the NIH, spending two years at each institution. Students have access to all NIH facilities and are paid a stipend by the NIH, which also pays the University fees, plus flights and insurance.  In Cambridge they have access to all the University resources.  The PhD is awarded by the University of Cambridge.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop a collaborative PhD research project, guided by their Cambridge supervisors and by the NIH mentor.

At the end of their PhD course, students should:

  • Have a thorough knowledge of the literature and a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods and techniques applicable to their own research;
  • Be able to demonstrate originality in their application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
  • Have developed the ability to critically evaluate current research and research techniques and methodologies;
  • Have self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems;
  • Be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and
  • Have gained oral presentation and scientific writing skills.

Continuing

The standard for continuers to commence this PhD course is subject to the host department's own admission criteria and separate enquiries should be made.

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil 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; and subject to successful application through the NIH programme selection process.


Open Days

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.

See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Eligible candidates interested in the programme may have an opportunity to meet current and new scholars during orientation visits organised by the NIH. For more information contact Kerry Print.


Departments

This course is advertised in the following departments:

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Key Information


3-4 years full-time

Study Mode : Research

Doctor of Philosophy

Department of Medicine This course is advertised in multiple departments. Please see the Overview tab for more details.

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
May 21, 2025
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

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

Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 7, 2025
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

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