Radcliffe Department of Medicine at University of Oxford | About the University Department | 3 PhD programmes in English

The Radcliffe Department of Medicine (RDM) in the University of Oxford is a large multi-disciplinary department with research interests that span the translational spectrum – from basic biology through to clinical application. It’s mission is to improve health through cross-disciplinary research to understand shared mechanisms of disease and to accelerate the transition from scientific discovery to clinical care. RDM is committed to training the next generation of scientists in biological and clinical sciences.

Why study at the 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 the Radcliffe Department of Medicine

The department offers a PhD in Medical Sciences which covers all areas of RDM research. In keeping with the department’s focus on translational research, applications are welcomed from both basic scientists and clinicians for this programme. The PhD typically lasts three to four years, depending on the project and the student. The department has considerable experience supervising clinicians who hold three-year fellowships and tailors research projects for such students accordingly.

Our RDM Scholars Programme is open to outstanding candidates of any nationality. RDM scholarships provide fully funded awards for students wishing to undertake a four-year PhD in Medical Sciences, covering University fees and a stipend of the current UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27). Applications to be considered for this funding competition must be submitted by 1 December, 2026.

Further details on the projects available and the application process are available on the RDM website. Admissions for entry in October 2027 now open.

Student life at the Radcliffe Department of Medicine

As a graduate student in RDM you would be part of a community of around 150 students with access not only to University-wide resources but also RDM course-specific resources which will support your study. RDM provides students with the facilities, support and career development opportunities needed to thrive.

You will be allocated space within your supervisor's lab. RDM has state-of-the-art research facilities across the spectrum of our research expertise, and where specialist facilities do not exist within RDM itself it is usually possible to use facilities elsewhere in Oxford. You will also have the support of a local Director of Graduate Studies, the RDM Director and Deputy Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Studies Manager.

The RDM 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 RDM 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.

The department also has a Student Forum comprised of several student representatives from across RDM. It meets termly to discuss any concerns students may have and to provide feedback on the various aspects of life as an RDM student.

Subjects available at the Radcliffe Department of Medicine

Cell Biology

Genetic Engineering

Genetics

Genomics

Human Genetics

Molecular Biology

Molecular Genetics

Biological Sciences

Medicine

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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. 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.

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Radcliffe Department of Medicine