Primary tabs
The Department of Veterinary Medicine houses a wide range of skilled staff, facilities and equipment, and has a wide clinical patient group to support students' research. It also has strong ties with world class groups elsewhere in the University and its surrounding Research Institutes.
We have particular Research strengths in Disease Dynamics, Infection and Immunity, Systems Pathology. There is a wide range of potential research subjects on offer: from mathematical studies to small and macromolecules, cells, tissues and model organisms to clinical patients.
The PhD degree by research is carried out over a minimum of three and a maximum of four years (full time), including a probationary period of one year. Each student is assigned a primary supervisor who will then assign an advisor or supervisory team to assist the student under their supervision.
Many research projects are carried out primarily within the Department, but part of your studies may occur elsewhere or even abroad. Depending on the funder, some courses include lab rotations in the first year. All students are expected to take part in the Postgraduate School of Life Science’s Researcher Development Programme.
At the end of their first year of study, students are required to complete a satisfactory first-year report and assessment. A short report is also expected at the end of the second year and students are expected to participate in Departmental events such as Seminars, Journal clubs and Research Days. Final examination is by submission and viva voce examination of a thesis.
Continuing
Continuation to the PhD from MPhil is possible although it is not automatic. All cases are judged on their own merits based on a number of factors including evidence of progress and research potential; a sound research proposal; the availability of a suitable supervisor, full funding and resources required for the research; and acceptance by the Head of Department and the Degree Committee.
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.
We also welcome visits by interested candidates throughout the year: please contact potential supervisors to discuss a visit (see https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/study/postgrad/apply to find out how to make contact).