British Heart Foundation 4-Year PhD Studentships 2024

The University of Leicester British Heart Foundation 4 Year MRes/PhD Programme is a flagship programme designed to provide high quality training for students with an interest in Cardiovascular research from a range of biological science / biomedical engineering backgrounds. The University of Leicester has an international reputation for excellence in cardiovascular research, with research spanning the full spectrum from the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease to translational clinical research. The BHF 4-year PhD Programme will be set within a vibrant training environment, alongside other 3.5- or 4-year doctoral training programmes within the University, with well-established training and management infrastructure.

We currently have 5 fully funded studentships available to start in September 2024. Students receive an enhanced stipend rate (currently starting at £19,919 per annum) plus tuition fees at the standard home rate* as well as enhanced bench fees and a travel allowance.

Our BHF 4-year PhD programme provides tailored training in cardiovascular sciences and includes broad training in general research and transferrable skills.

Key features of the Programme

• An MRes degree in year 1 that enables students from different undergraduate backgrounds to develop a sound knowledge-base of cardiovascular science and a wide range of research and technical skills, providing a solid preparation for their PhD.
• The MRes includes two mini-projects providing the opportunity for students to broaden their research experience. There are opportunities for students to undertake projects under the guidance of principal investigators with world-leading expertise in a cutting-edge research areas, including cardiovascular genomics, proteomics, biomarker discovery, data science, electrophysiology, lifestyle risk factors, clinical translational research, and interdisciplinary cardiovascular research.
• During year 1, students have the unique opportunity to input into the design of their final PhD project which they will then undertake in years 2-4.

Eligibility

Applicants for the Programme must hold (or expect to obtain) a UK undergraduate (Bachelors) degree with at least first class or upper second class honours, or a UK MSc with merit or distinction, or an equivalent qualification from a recognised overseas institution. International students will need to satisfy the English language entry requirements.

Funding and stipend

All entrants into this prestigious PhD programme receive funding through the British Heart Foundation, which covers the tuition fees at standard home student rate and provides a tax-free stipend start at £19,919 per annum and associated research consumables.

*Exceptional candidates who qualify as international students will be considered, but must pay the difference between UK and overseas fees themselves.

Making an application

To apply for a place in this Programme, you are required to follow the guidance and complete an online application from here.

Deadline for Applications: 16 February 2024