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Postgraduate Study

Being a PhD student at the Cavendish Laboratory is an incredibly rewarding experience. The department provides abundant world-class resources and state-of-the-art facilities that empower us to pursue the most ambitious and cutting-edge research in physics. Within the Rao Group, there is a unique culture of intellectual freedom. We are encouraged to explore the research directions we are most passionate about while receiving comprehensive support. Beyond the lab, life here is just as dynamic. Whether it's our highly competitive foosball matches, various sports, or frequent social gatherings, there is a fantastic sense of community that makes the PhD journey at Cambridge truly enjoyable.

Bofeng Xue, (Mar. 31, 2026)

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Key Information


Lent 2027
Applications open
Sep. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Oct. 1, 2026
Course starts
Jan. 5, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Easter 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2025
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2027
Course starts
Apr. 5, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Michaelmas 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
May. 13, 2027
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Lent 2028
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Sep. 30, 2027
Course starts
Jan. 5, 2028
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Easter 2028
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Jan. 13, 2028
Course starts
Apr. 17, 2028
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 14, 2026

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2027, Lent 2028 and Easter 2028.

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