Chemical Biology

Chemical Biology at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that bridges the traditional fields of chemistry and biology to explore the molecular mechanisms of life processes. This program is designed to equip students with a profound understanding of the chemical principles underlying biological systems, enabling them to develop innovative solutions to complex scientific challenges. Throughout the course, students will engage with advanced topics such as organic and inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and medicinal chemistry, gaining practical laboratory skills and a robust theoretical foundation. The programme emphasizes experimental techniques, data analysis, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers in academia, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and related industries. Students will benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, access to leading researchers, and a vibrant scholarly community that fosters collaboration and innovation. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests within chemical biology, including drug discovery, enzyme mechanisms, and chemical genetics. Furthermore, the programme offers opportunities for interdisciplinary research projects, internships, and placements in world-renowned research institutes and industry partners. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to contribute to advancements in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and the understanding of fundamental biological processes. The Oxford Chemical Biology program upholds the university’s tradition of excellence and commitment to fostering scientific discovery, preparing students to become future leaders in science and technology.

You will be admitted as a probationary research student and will join a research group supervised by one or more members of the Department of Chemistry, sometimes in collaboration with other departments. During the first year, in addition to starting work on your research, you will be encouraged to follow training courses chosen from the vast number offered by the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division Graduate School, and it is recommended that you attend at least three of these. A termly report on your progress is submitted by your supervisor throughout the course. 

At the end of the first year you will apply for transfer to MSc by Research status, which ensures that you have the potential to gain the degree. This assessment will be made on the basis of a report and oral examination.

Research proceeds with termly reporting until the project is complete. The degree is examined by thesis and oral examination by two examiners, one of whom is normally from Oxford and one from elsewhere. Most MSc by Research students submit their thesis within two years.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in a subject relevant to the proposed research. Normally this will be a chemistry degree, but degrees in other physical sciences or in a biological science may be suitable.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

A previous master's degree is not required.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Applicants with substantial professional experience are welcome.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose: Up to one page or 1,000 words
• References/letters of recommendation: Three overall, all of which must be academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Standard level

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Chemical Biology program to support their academic journey and reduce financial burdens. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and residency status, with UK students benefiting from the domestic fee structure, while international students are subject to higher tuition rates. To assist with these costs, Oxford provides a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically targeted at graduate students pursuing programs in sciences and biomedical fields, including Chemical Biology. Many of these funding opportunities are merit-based and require separate applications, with some available exclusively for students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement or financial need. Additionally, the university encourages students to seek external funding sources, such as government grants, research council awards, and industry-sponsored scholarships pertinent to biosciences and chemical research.

Students are also advised to explore departmental funding options, which may include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or stipends associated with specific research projects. The Oxford Graduate Scholarships and other institutional awards are highly competitive but provide substantial financial support throughout the duration of the program. For students from the UK, the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding schemes may be accessible, providing stipends and tuition coverage for eligible candidates. International students can consider applying for endowed fellowships or external scholarships that recognize excellence in scientific research.

In addition to formal scholarships, the university offers financial guidance services to help students navigate the complexities of funding, budgeting, and managing costs during their studies. Students are encouraged to plan their finances early and seek personalized advice from the university’s financial aid office. The university also recognizes that many students finance their studies through part-time work, subject to visa regulations for international applicants. Overall, Oxford aims to make its world-class Chemical Biology program accessible to a diverse range of students by providing extensive financial support options and guidance tailored to individual circumstances.

Chemical Biology at the University of Oxford offers an integrated program that combines rigorous training in the fundamental principles of chemistry and biology to understand biological systems at the molecular level. The curriculum is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, medicinal chemistry, and techniques used in modern chemical research. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects, often in collaboration with leading scientists in the field, to develop a deep understanding of the chemical processes underlying biological functions and disease mechanisms. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, fostering innovative approaches to solving complex biological problems with chemical tools. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialized instrumentation, and comprehensive support from academic staff renowned for their research excellence. The program also aims to develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing graduates for careers in academia, pharmaceuticals, biotech industries, and science communication. The period of study typically includes lectures, tutorials, practicals, and research placements, culminating in a substantial research project and dissertation. The Chemical Biology program at Oxford is part of the Department of Chemistry and collaborates with other departments including the Department of Biochemistry and the Oxford Suzhou Centre for Hybrid Intelligence. Graduates from this program are well-positioned to contribute to scientific advances in drug discovery, diagnostics, and the development of new therapeutic strategies. The program's strong emphasis on research and innovation ensures that students are equipped to make meaningful impacts in the rapidly evolving field of chemical biology.