PhD Cell and Molecular Biology - Cell and Molecular Biology Degree

Program Overview

The PhD Cell and Molecular Biology program at the University of Essex is a research-focused degree that typically lasts 3-4 years. The program offers opportunities for developing novel ideas and interdisciplinary projects in areas including cancer biology, immunology, and cell signaling. Students benefit from world-class supervision, a supportive research environment, and the opportunity to pursue careers in research, industry, or government. The program emphasizes the development of independent researchers with a critical understanding of their field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD Cell and Molecular Biology program at the University of Essex is a full-time research degree that typically lasts 3-4 years. It is based in the School of Life Sciences, which offers a wide range of research areas in biology, from genes to ecosystems. The program provides opportunities for developing novel ideas and interdisciplinary projects. The program focuses on cell and molecular biology, including:

• Cancer and stem cell biology
• Immunology
• Medical microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Structural biology
• Chromatin structure and epigenetics
• Cell signaling
As a research student, you will be part of an internationally acknowledged and well-connected research community. The program offers world-class supervision and training opportunities, encouraging engagement with other researchers, professionals, and research users. Part-time research study is also available. You can start the degree in October, January, or April. An MPhil and MSD are also available.

Assessment:

The program's assessment is primarily based on the dissertation, which is a comprehensive research project that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct independent research and communicate their findings effectively. The program also includes:

• Literature reviews: Students submit literature reviews to their supervisory board meetings.
• Research reports: Students submit research reports to their supervisory board meetings.
• Supervisory board meetings: Students attend two formal supervisory board meetings each year to discuss their progress and receive feedback.

Teaching:

The program does not have a taught structure, allowing students to focus on their research. However, the program provides a supportive research and training environment, including:

• Supervision: Students are allocated a supervisor who guides them through the different stages of their research degree.
In some cases, students may have joint supervision.
• Research Groups: Students become part of a Research Group, participating in School Seminars to enhance their technical and intellectual development.
• Annual Graduate Forum: This forum provides an opportunity for students to showcase their findings through posters, presentations, or by organizing the event.

Careers:

Graduates of the PhD Cell and Molecular Biology program pursue a range of careers, including:

• Postdoctoral positions: Many graduates continue their scientific research by taking up postdoctoral positions in the UK or overseas.
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries: Graduates work in these industries, applying their knowledge and skills to research and development.
• Governmental and non-governmental organizations: Graduates contribute to research and policy development in these organizations.
The program supports career development through a mentoring scheme and employability events.

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of developing independent researchers who can critically assess research work and have a comprehensive understanding of at least one area of biology.
• The program encourages PhD students to submit their dissertations within three years and expects completion within a four-year period.
• The School of Life Sciences provides a comprehensive range of facilities for cellular and molecular biology research, including:
• Fully automated laboratories with robotic liquid handling systems and equipment for cell culture, molecular biology, and gene editing.
• High-performance computing cluster for analyzing large biological data sets.
• Advanced bioimaging suite for visualizing and analyzing images of biological processes in real time.
• Facilities for cell and microbial culture.
• X-ray crystallography and macromolecular interactions facilities for the biophysical characterization of proteins and other macromolecules.
• Next-generation sequence analysis facilities.
• A dedicated study room for postgraduate research students.
• The University of Essex is located in Colchester, England, and is easily reached from London and Stansted Airport.

Home/UK fee £4,786 per year International fee £21,500 per year