Faculty of Medicine

University of Southampton

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Take your place in a faculty where exciting advances happen, from breakthroughs in biomedical science to pioneering drug trials. At the University of Southampton’s Faculty of Medicine, discoveries move swiftly from bench to bedside, powered by our close partnership with University Hospital Southampton. We’re seeking talented researchers who are ready for the rigours and rewards of medical research in this dynamic environment. In return, you’ll have access to flagship facilities that bridge the gap between lab and clinic, such as the Centre for Cancer Immunology and NIHR Clinical Research Facility. A supportive, interdisciplinary community, flexible programmes and tailored training will ensure you thrive during your research journey and beyond.

Why study at the Faculty of Medicine?

Choose from flexible options across three programmes – PhD, DM (Doctor of Medicine) and integrated PhD (iPhD) – available full-time or part-time, with four entry dates per year.

Benefit from our investment in multidisciplinary research teams, encompassing biomedical sciences, neuroscience, cancer and population health and more, with opportunities for external collaborations.

Take advantage of opportunities for discovery and translational research through our links with University Hospital Southampton and industry partners.

Join a research community that’s helping to improve human health in areas as diverse as asthma, osteoporosis and antibiotic resistance.

Work with top-tier researchers from around the world, forge international partnerships and take part in global health initiatives.

200

postgraduate students

3

listings on FindAPhD

81st

in the QS World University Rankings 2025

Southampton United Kingdom

main campus

About the Faculty of Medicine

At the Faculty of Medicine our researchers flourish in a rich interdisciplinary research environment with a strong translational ethos. You’ll take your place alongside world-leading specialists whose work across biomedical sciences, neuroscience, cancer and population health is solving global health challenges and informing clinical policy and innovation.

As part of our inclusive, supportive community you’ll be empowered to turn ideas into real-world solutions. Our links with University Hospital Southampton and the Institute for Life Sciences offer access to extensive patient cohorts and clinical trials, and you’ll benefit from all the high-spec facilities you’d expect from a powerhouse of medical research, such as:

Dedicated labs, equipment and computing capacity for bioinformatics, clinical research data capture and management, flow cytometry, histochemistry and ethically managed in vivo research.
Advanced imaging facilities for biomedical imaging, 3D X-ray histology and cancer sciences microscopy.

Beyond the lab, you’ll benefit from tailored support, including mentorship schemes, grant-writing workshops and access to a wide range of online journals and resources.

Our location at University Hospital Campus gives you a direct connection to clinical settings and real-world healthcare challenges, while through public engagement initiatives like LifeLab, you can share your passion for research with the wider community and build your leadership and communication skills.

Funded PhD opportunities

Student life at the Faculty of Medicine

Join a friendly, diverse research community where you’ll find all the support and resources you need to excel.

On campus, shared work and social spaces, and an active Life Sciences Postgraduate Society create plenty of opportunities to connect with your peers. You can also take part in Doctoral College activities that bring the wider University postgraduate research community together – a chance to celebrate your achievements and showcase your work through events such as poster exhibitions and a Three Minute Thesis competition.

Throughout your time with us, you’ll be supported by a small team of expert supervisors who are invested in your success. Mentoring and development opportunities are embedded into your research journey, with more than 400 professional development workshops to choose from each year.

We are committed to promoting respect, inclusion and opportunity for all, through award-winning initiatives like the Race Equality Charter, Athena Swan recognition and Black Futures Scholarships. Dedicated groups, such as a parents’ and carers' network and LGBTQ+ groups, bring together postgraduate researchers with shared interests or priorities. There are also comprehensive wellbeing, disability and inclusion services for any additional support you might need.

When you need to take a break, Southampton offers a blend of cultural venues, restaurants and nightlife, green spaces and coastal walks. With a mild climate and a safe, friendly, walkable community, it’s a great location for postgraduate life.

PhDs at The University of Southampton

Frequently asked questions

Should I include a CV when applying?

You can include a CV in your application, but the University application form has sections for education and work experience. It is easier for recruiters if you put the information into the form.

Do I need to attach the references to the application?

No. We will need the references by the time of your interview at the latest and will request them independently.

Should I contact possible supervisors before I apply?

Yes. Contacting supervisors before you apply is invaluable to ensure you understand the work they do, and how you would fit into the team. Supervisors are unlikely to accept an applicant who has not been in touch with them before.

What funding or scholarships are available?

The Faculty of Medicine hosts the Medical Research Council Doctoral Training Programme, which offers studentships on the integrated PhD in Biomedical Science programme and iCASE (industrial Collaborative Awards in Science and Engineering) studentships. The University also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, including the prestigious Presidential Scholarships, Black Futures Scholarships, and Innovation and Social Impact awards. You can find more details on the Doctoral College funding page. Many externally funded projects are also available throughout the year.

Are there language requirements, such as IELTS or TOEFL?

We ask for a minimum standard of English Language of at least IELTS overall score of 6.5 with 6.0 in each category. Or you can provide proof of a previous degree taught in English, or substantial work experience in the UK. Find out more about our entry requirements.