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Postgraduate Study

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.

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.

 

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Key Information


3-4 years full-time

4-7 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Doctor of Philosophy

Department of Medical Genetics

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
May 16, 2025
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
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.


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