Biological Science

Established in 1983, the EMBL International PhD Programme provides students with the best starting platform for a successful career in science. Characterised by first-class training, internationality, dedicated mentoring and early independence in research, it is among the world's most competitive PhD training schemes. All of EMBL's five sites participate in the programme.

EMBL-EBI provides a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment in which research and service provision are closely allied. We are a world leader in bioinformatics research and service provision, as we are at the centre of global efforts to collect and disseminate biological data. We share a campus with the Wellcome Trust's Sanger Institute, 12 miles south of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, and hold an Open Day every year in the autumn. You can read our Our Research at a Glance brochure to learn about current research at EMBL.

EMBL PhD students at EMBL-EBI are members of the University of Cambridge and one of its colleges.  They receive their degree from Cambridge University; the programme is coordinated in Heidelberg with local support at EBI. 

EMBL PhD students receive theoretical and practical training, and conduct a research project under the supervision of an EMBL faculty member, monitored by a Thesis Advisory Committee. The duration of PhD studies is normally 3.5 to 4 years.

1. Select an area of interest.
2. Register for the online application system. Applicants MUST register – application is via online submission only.
3. Apply for a PhD position starting in October of the year you are applying. Make sure you have your references in by the deadline!
4. Interviews at EMBL Heidelberg, Germany and Hinxton (Cambridge), UK take place in January (Spring round) or July (Summer round).
5. The first assessment is carried out by a faculty member who is familiar with the applicant's national education system.
6. The application is then reviewed by the faculty members of the EMBL Scientific Programme at EMBL-EBI.
7. The EMBL Graduate Committee short-lists the candidates who will be invited to interview.
8. Short-listed applicants are invited to attend an Initial Admission Assessment (IAA) interview, conducted by a panel of EMBL faculty members at EMBL-EBI. This 20-minute pass/fail interview is the prerequisite for eligibility. During the interview, you may be questioned on any aspect of molecular biology and your previous training.
9. The days following the IAA are filled with panel and one-to-one interviews with Group Leaders as well as group visits.
10. Successful candidates are then awarded entry into the EMBL International PhD Programme by the Graduate Committee.

Financing studies at the University of Cambridge for the Biological Science undergraduate program involves a comprehensive overview of the available funding options, scholarship opportunities, and financial support mechanisms tailored to both domestic and international students. The university offers a range of scholarships and bursaries designed to assist students in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and study materials. For UK students, a variety of government-funded loans and grants are accessible, including the student loan system managed by the UK government, which provides financial support to cover tuition fees and maintenance costs. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships such as the Cambridge Trust Scholarships, which offer partial and full funding options based on academic merit and financial need, as well as specific funding opportunities provided by their home countries and external organizations.

The university's Financial Support Office provides detailed guidance on eligibility, application processes, and deadlines for various funding schemes. Additionally, external funding sources such as research councils, charity trusts, and industry-sponsored awards are available to postgraduate students progressing in Biological Sciences research. Students are advised to apply early to maximize their chances of securing funding, and the university recommends exploring multiple sources of financial support to ensure comprehensive coverage of study-related expenses. Cambridge also offers work opportunities on campus, including part-time positions, which can supplement students’ income during their studies. Overall, financing studies at Cambridge requires diligent planning, timely application to relevant scholarships, and consideration of all available financial resources to successfully fund a degree in Biological Science.

The Biological Science program at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of biology. It covers a wide array of topics, including molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, physiology, ecology, and evolution. The program is structured to offer students a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, and beyond.

Students undertaking this course have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, which support experimental research and data analysis. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills, essential for advancing in biological sciences. Throughout the program, students engage in coursework, tutorials, and hands-on lab work that foster a thorough understanding of biological systems at various levels—from molecules and cells to entire ecosystems.

The course typically spans three years for a standard undergraduate degree, with options for specialization in particular areas of interest as students progress. There are also opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, blending biological sciences with other fields such as medicine, biochemistry, or environmental science. The program encourages active participation in research projects, often in collaboration with leading scientists and research institutes associated with the university.

Students may also benefit from the university’s extensive network of academic collaborations, internships, and conferences that enhance their learning experience and open avenues for postgraduate study or professional development. Graduates of the Biological Science program frequently pursue careers in scientific research, pharmacology, conservation, teaching, and biotechnology industries.

Furthermore, the university emphasizes a personalized approach to education, with small group tutorials and personalized mentoring, allowing students to develop individualized academic interests and research agendas. The program's overall aim is to produce well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to scientific advancements and address global biological challenges.