(MRC DTP) Dense control of neural dynamics by sparse interneuron networks

Our Faculty brings together researchers working across biological sciences, medicine and health sciences. Research spans areas including cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health, informatics, genomics, population health, infection, global health and healthcare innovation. You can apply for advertised PhD projects, explore funded opportunities, or, develop your own research proposal with a potential supervisor. Many of our researchers work across disciplines, schools and even Faculties, and collaborate with NHS organisations, industry partners and international institutions, creating opportunities to tackle real-world health challenges. Learn more about postgraduate research in the Faculty.

We offer a range of fully funded opportunities for UK and international applicants, including studentships, doctoral training programmes and University schemes. The Faculty participates in several major doctoral training programmes such as the BBSRC NWDP in Biosciences and supports initiatives designed to widen access to postgraduate research like the Excellence in Diversity PhD Scholarship. Funding is launched from October each year, but new opportunities can be added throughout the year, so we recommend checking regularly for new programmes and project-based studentships. Explore funding opportunities.

The vast majority of PhD opportunities in the Faculty are pre-defined projects; however, we do also accept self-proposed projects. To propose your own research you’ll need to start by defining your research idea and finding a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your idea. You’ll also need to consider funding. This will typically be a separate process to your project proposal. In most cases, having funding in place before you contact your supervisor and apply will strengthen your application and chances of success. Once you’ve considered funding and found a supervisor, you’ll be expected to write a 1,000 to 1,500 word research proposal which sets out your project and readiness for postgraduate research. Find out more about proposing your own project on our website.

The application process will depend on whether you are applying for an advertised project or proposing your own research. For advertised projects, you’ll need to find a project that matches an area you’re passionate about, check you’re eligible and contact the listed project supervisor to check you’re suitable. If you are proposing your own project, you should identify a prospective supervisor, create a research proposal and consider your funding before contacting the potential supervisor and applying. When applying you’ll need to include a supporting statement, CV, your certificates and transcripts and any official English language certificates. Learn more about applying for an advertised project.