Cell Biology

The Institute of Cell Biology (ICB), including the Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology, hosts 34 laboratories carrying out world-class research into fundamental mechanisms relating to cellular function. A significant proportion of our research involves systems biology approaches and mathematical modelling.

Our research groups comprise one of the largest communities of cell biology researchers in the UK. Many of our staff are Fellows of the Royal Society and acknowledged leaders in their field.

Most PhD students who train at the ICB continue with their academic career or join research in the industry, often becoming independent group leaders.

We offer a wide scope of projects covering different areas of cell biology, including:

• the synthesis, processing, localisation and degradation of RNA
• epigenetic control of gene expression, chromosome function and genome stability
• mechanisms of cell growth and duplication
• the rules that govern cellular architecture
• biotechnology
• synthetic biology
• microbial regulation

A variety of courses in microscopy, bioinformatics and proteomics are available to all our PhD students.

Our students learn through a hands-on, laboratory-based project as well as guided reading, one-to-one supervision, group seminars and workshops. Students are assigned a supervisor and a thesis committee but are also encouraged to develop independent lines of enquiry. A programme of transferable skills courses facilitates broader professional development.

• A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant subject. You should have some research experience and be able to demonstrate that you have a good understanding of the field you propose to study.
• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component
• TOEFL-iBT: total 92 with at least 20 in each section
• PTE(A): total 61 with at least 56 in each of the Communicative Skills scores
• CAE and CPE: total 176 with at least 169 in each paper
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• School of Biological Sciences Studentships
• Principal's Career Development PhD Scholarships
• Research Scholarships for international students