Image Credit: Medical Sciences Doctoral Training Centre, University of Oxford

Wellcome Trust 4-year Doctoral Programme in Genomic Medicine and Statistics

Doctoral Programme, October 2024 Entry

Advances in genomics has transformed biomedical research over the last decade and is now having significant impact on the practice of clinical medicine. The widespread application of genome sequencing in the clinic requires a new generation of appropriately trained researchers able to help deliver this promise and take advantage of unparalleled research opportunities. Complementing this, large scale population biobanks are bringing together extensive genomic and phenotypic information on millions of individuals, while new genome editing and single cell genomics techniques are offering novel and powerful approaches to understanding biology.

This four year PhD programme aims to train and nurture future scientific leaders who will work at the cutting edge of genomics in biomedical research and in the clinic, and practice the qualities of fair and inspiring leadership that we will instil during the course.

The programme is hosted in the Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics (WHG), together with supervisors from across the University (including the Big Data Institute, Target Discovery Institute, Department of Statistics, Mathematical Institute and Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine), ensuring a unique opportunity for cross-disciplinary training spanning experimental and analytical genomic science. Core themes include genomic and -omic technologies, functional genomics, genome biology, population genetics, evolution, pathogen genomics, genomics of disease, genomic analysis, and application of genomics for drug development, diagnostics, precision medicine and intervention to effect cure using gene editing.

Students joining the programme come from diverse backgrounds, ranging from genetics to pure maths and clinical medicine but united by a track record of academic excellence and enthusiasm for this field. The first year of the PhD programme contains a series of taught modules covering fundamental topics in core themes (experimental and analytical) with additional training tailored to the needs of the individual student. First year students will also undertake up to 3 research projects in three month lab rotations that will inform the choice of PhD project for the final three years of the programme. A commitment to support creativity, prioritise diversity and inclusion, and promote best practice in research is central to all aspects of the programme with excellence in supervision, mentorship and student transitions into and out of the programme. Our graduating students have a strong track record of career progression in academia, biotech, spin-outs, consulting and health care settings.

All applications must be received by the deadline of 12 noon UK time Friday 1 December 2023.

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