The Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR) is one of the leading research institutions in the UK and provides a unique interface between clinical and basic biomedical science, aiming to understand the cellular basis of disease. 40% of our researchers are clinically active, and we have a demonstrated record of translating our basic research into successful clinical application. Our researchers use cell biology to understand molecular mechanisms of disease and conversely use genetic disease to reveal crucial mechanisms of cell biology. Although our research has particular strengths in key cell processes (membrane trafficking and protein folding) as well as biological areas (immune system and neuronal function), an important asset at CIMR is the breadth of disease areas that our research impinges on, and it is this that allows us to reveal fundamental principles of disease and infection. Crucial to this is the use of multiple approaches, including genetics, and cellular and structural biology.

Students at CIMR benefit from a wealth of seminars, core topic sessions and workshops held in CIMR by outstanding world-leading researchers, providing a broad scientific education. Our students receive expert training in state-of-the-art technologies, through our core research facilities and also have diverse opportunities to communicate their research findings and develop collaborative networks at for example the annual CIMR research retreat.

CIMR welcomes applications from graduates to undertake research towards a PhD in any of the labs based in CIMR.  We admit those applicants who meet the academic admissions criteria and whose research interests match those of an available member of the academic staff who is willing to act as the student's supervisor. Applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors directly in the first instance, to discuss their application and funding possibilities. A list of CIMR PIs can be found here.

CIMR is also the admissions centre for the Departments of Haematology and Medical Genetics.  Applicants wishing to undertake a PhD with a supervisor based in the  Departments of Haematology and Medical Genetics outside of CIMR should also apply to the PhD in Medical Science (CIMR) course.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of their PhD, students should:

• have a thorough knowledge of the literature and a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods and techniques applicable to their own research;
• be able to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• have developed the ability to critically evaluate current research and research techniques and methodologies;
• have self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems;
• be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; 
• have gained oral presentation and scientific writing skills.

During their PhD the students are based in a research group, supported by their primary and secondary supervisors and the CIMR Graduate Education Committee. There is no taught and examined course work, but students can take part in core topic discussion sessions held once a week by PIs in CIMR. Along with the specific research training provided in the laboratory in which the student works, he/she receives further training within the CIMR in the form of graduate workshops concentrating on research techniques, research seminars both on the Addenbrooke's site and elsewhere in the University, and graduate student seminars dealing with generic skills such as intellectual property rights, writing a thesis or paper, and entrepreneurship.

Feedback

Students receive feedback regarding their progress in the form of written termly reports from their supervisor. 

Moreover, verbal feedback will be provided frequently by the project supervisor as part of the day to day supervision.

Assessment

Thesis

The word limit for PhD dissertations is 60,000 although students may request an extension of their word limit up to 80,000 words. The viva voce examination is conducted in Cambridge by an internal examiner of the University and an external expert examiner.

Other

All PhD students are required to undergo formal assessment (by written report and viva) at the end of their first year. If successful, the student moves from being 'probationary' to being registered for the PhD and can proceed with their project.

In their second year students are required to present a poster and throughout their PhD they will give research talks within CIMR and at the Research Retreat. In addition they can take part in events and competitions organised within the Graduate School of Life Sciences and the University.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.0
• TOEFL Internet Score 100
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• CV/Resumé
• Personal Reference

Want to improve your English level for admission?

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

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

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