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Teaching
The PhD degree is exclusively research-based. The research area and Supervisor will be confirmed during the application process. Students will conduct their research with both University and NHS specialists in their field of study and may be co-supervised by someone on Addenbrooke's staff.
One to one supervision | Students should expect to receive regular supervision from their principal Supervisor and to attend regular laboratory meetings, both on a weekly basis. The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University's expectations regarding supervision. The Supervisor will provide written feedback to the student each term, with progress reports submitted online. The feedback will relate to the student's progress and include a specific comment on their research project. This will be discussed with the student in advance of the report's submission to the University. |
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Seminars & classes | Students are likely to attend research group meetings where research results are presented and discussed. |
Lectures | Students are encouraged to attend research lectures and seminars on a range of biomedical subject areas, both on campus and in the wider University of Cambridge. |
Practicals | Students are expected to spend the majority of their study time pursuing basic or clinical research in the laboratories and in the Department. Students undertaking clinical research projects may be involved in recruiting patients onto trials, and helping to monitor their progress. Students may also undertake some basic procedures, such as sample collection, depending on their training. |
Small group teaching | If relevant to the student's project, there may be an opportunity to participate in small-group teaching. More general small-group teaching may also be available. |
Literature Reviews | Students are expected to undertake a literature review relevant to their chosen research project. |
Posters and Presentations | There are relevant conferences in the UK and overseas throughout the year. If a student has developed their research to a sufficient level to coincide with a relevant conference, then there could be the opportunity to present at the meeting. In addition, there are periodic student-oriented events throughout the Biomedical Campus, including poster competitions in which students are encouraged to participate. |
Feedback
The Supervisor will provide written feedback to the student each term, with progress reports submitted online. The feedback will relate to the student's progress and include a specific comment on their research project. This will be discussed with the student in advance of the report's submission to the University. These reports are made online and can be accessed by students.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
Examination for the PhD degree involves submission of a written thesis of not more than 60,000 words in length, exclusive of figures, photographs, tables, appendices and bibliography. This is followed by an oral examination based on both the thesis and a broader knowledge of the chosen area of research. The thesis should provide evidence that the student can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspectives of the subject.
Other
All PhD students are probationary in their first year. In the 10th month of the first year, students are required to submit a report, the purpose of which is to provide evidence of their suitability for registration for a PhD. This report will be assessed at an oral examination (viva) by two examiners, and the student will need to pass in order to be formally registered for the PhD and continue their studies.
If successful, the student moves from being 'probationary' to being formally registered for the PhD and can proceed with their project.