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Teaching
This is a research degree, and there is no formal teaching. However, students may attend relevant training courses relating to their project in consultation with their Supervisor.
All students are also expected to take part in the Postgraduate School of Life Science's Researcher Development Programme.
| One to one supervision | The student is assigned a primary Supervisor who will help to appoint an adviser or sometimes a supervisory team. Students are closely supported in their activities by this group. The number of hours of formal supervision will vary depending on the student, Supervisor and project, as well as varying over the course of the PhD. The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University's expectations regarding supervision. |
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| Seminars & classes | The student is expected to attend journal clubs and departmental seminars. Other classes are decided by the student and Supervisor, and the number of hours is not set. |
| Literature Reviews | It is recommended to complete a Literature Review within first four months of arrival and this will be included in the first year report. |
| Posters and Presentations | Students are expected to present at the weekly seminar slot to the department at the end of their first year. They are also expected to participate in the bi-annual departmental research days at least once during the course of their PhD by presenting posters or 'Blitz talks' (short oral presentations). |
Placements
Depending on the funder, some courses include a three-month industrial placement.
Feedback
Students can expect to receive a formal online feedback report from their Supervisor once per term. Feedback will also be available following the examination of the first-year report. More informal feedback from supervisors will be provided as required.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
This course is examined by thesis and viva. The thesis must be no longer than 60,000 words (or 80,000 by special permission of the Degree Committee). These limits exclude figures, photographs, tables, appendices and bibliography. The thesis is examined at a viva, usually by one internal examiner and one external examiner.
Other
All PhD students are required to undergo a formal assessment (by written report and viva) at the end of their first year, which they must pass. If successful, the student moves from being 'probationary' to being registered for the PhD and can proceed with their project. A less formal report on progress and plans is required at the end of the second year.