Radcliffe Department of Medicine at University of Oxford | About the University Department

The Radcliffe Department of Medicine (RDM) in the University of Oxford is a large multi-disciplinary department which aims to tackle some of the world’s biggest health challenges by integrating innovative basic biology with cutting edge clinical research. RDM is committed to training the next generation of scientists in biological and clinical sciences.

Why study at Radcliffe Department of Medicine?

You will be admitted directly onto a research project with a specific Principal Investigator, who will act as your supervisor, and will be one of RDM's world-leading scientists.

RDM has state-of-the-art research facilities across the spectrum of our research expertise.

In addition to your supervisor, you will also have the support of a Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Studies Manager.

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About Radcliffe Department of Medicine

Formed in 2012, we are a multi-disciplinary Department with research interests that span the translational spectrum – from basic biology through to clinical application. Our ultimate aim is patient benefit, through improved understanding, diagnosis and treatment of disease.

By bringing together a diverse range of approaches, we promote initiatives at the boundaries of current clinical and scientific disciplines, to create new research opportunities. Our research is strongly embedded in the Oxford University Hospital Trust, with our researchers leading five of the research themes in the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre. This ensures a constant dialogue between basic and clinical research. Our work in underpinned by excellence in molecular medicine, stem cell biology, genomics and clinical laboratory science.

The department offers one PhD in Medical Sciences which covers all areas of RDM research and in keeping with the department’s focus on translational research, applications are welcomed from both basic scientists and clinicians.

Our RDM Scholars Programme is open to outstanding candidates of any nationality. It provides fully funded awards for students wishing to undertake a four-year PhD in Medical Sciences. In addition, the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine (WIMM), one of the constituent institutes of RDM, offers up to five fully funded 4-year WIMM Prize PhD Studentships to eligible applicants.

Further details on the projects available and the application process are available on the RDM website. Admissions for entry in October 2025 will open on 2 September 2024.

Student life at Radcliffe Department of Medicine

RDM provides students with the facilities, support and career development opportunities needed to thrive. The department recognises the importance of a good work-life balance and has developed policies and support mechanisms to help staff and students find the right balance for them.

The Career Development Committee organises an annual Career Day at which RDM alumni and other speakers look at different career paths that can be taken after your DPhil.
The Researcher Association enriches the RDM researcher experience through social events, career development and advice.
RDM’s mentoring scheme is open to all students and staff and aims to assist them in achieving personal and professional growth through a mentorship relationship that provides support as they progress and develop within the University.

RDM also has a Student Forum whose aim is to foster a community environment and to encourage communication and feedback between students and staff within the department. The Student Forum is made up of representatives from across the RDM divisions, including Peer Supporters and student members of other RDM committees.

The Student Forum organises social events for RDM students throughout the year as well as organising induction/welcome events for new students. In the past these have included a film night, summer parties and outings to Junkyard Golf. They also organise the RDM Buddy Scheme to help new students adjust to the department and foster connections across different year groups by pairing new students with current students within their division.

Frequently asked questions

When should I apply?

If you wish your application for the RDM DPhil in Medical Sciences to be considered for department/University funding schemes, such as the RDM Scholars Programme or the WIMM Prize Studentship, you need to ensure that your application is received and complete by the December deadline. If you do not wish to be considered for the RDM Scholars Programme or WIMM Prize Studentships you can apply after the December deadline until Friday 18 June 2025. You should consult our main How to Apply page for information on closure dates. If applying after the December deadline, we advise applying as early as you can to allow for all admissions processes to be completed in good time and to ensure that a college place can be found for you.

Do I have to be resident in Oxford during the course?

Yes, all graduate students are required by University Regulations to reside within 25 miles of Oxford for a minimum of six terms (two years). We expect our students to keep regular hours and work full time (at least 44 weeks per year); it is therefore unlikely to be practical for you to be resident elsewhere.

Can I come as a self-funded student or with my own scholarship, studentship or grant?

Yes. You will need to provide details of the funding as part of your financial declaration. If you are applying in advance of the December deadline and already have funding in place, please contact us to let us know whether or not you wish to be considered for the RDM Scholars Programme.