The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Plant Sciences at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration of plant biology, combining rigorous academic training with cutting-edge research opportunities. This postgraduate program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the complexities of plant life from molecular mechanisms to ecological interactions. Over the course of the program, students engage with a diverse range of topics including plant genetics, physiology, biochemistry, and development, as well as the application of plant science in agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with practical laboratory work, field studies, and research projects, providing students with a comprehensive skill set applicable to both academic and industry careers. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and are supervised by leading experts in the field, fostering an environment of innovative scientific inquiry. The program culminates in a substantial research thesis, contributing new insights to the field of plant sciences. With a strong emphasis on independent research, critical analysis, and scientific communication, the MPhil prepares graduates for further doctoral studies or professional roles in research institutions, environmental organizations, or the agricultural sector. The collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of the program encourages students to develop a holistic understanding of plant systems within their ecological and economic contexts. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to tackle global challenges related to food security, climate change, and biodiversity conservation through advanced scientific knowledge and research skills.

The Department has the overriding aim to provide all its Graduate Students with every opportunity for a broad education and a compatible environment in which they may complete a PhD or MPhil successfully. The Department will aim to provide guidance and, where appropriate, the facilities to allow Graduate Students to develop a number of different skills including:

• Research methodologies and the process of research including quantitative and qualitative methods and data analysis; project planning and management
• The effective use of learning resources including library and information technology
• Personal skills including oral and written communication, time management and team work skills, professional development and the preparation of curriculum vitae and employment applications
• A broad knowledge of the discipline in which the Student is working
• Technical training to enable the Student to undertake their research work effectively and efficiently
• Teaching experience by bringing to the notice of the Student the opportunities within the Department for supervising and/or demonstrating to Undergraduates
• Professional presentations

Placements

The Department has a number of industrial relationships in place, including Bayer and Microsoft. Placements will be dependent on the supervisor and project. 

Feedback

After the end of each term, the Graduate Education Committee will ask for a brief report on a students progress from their Supervisor. This information will be made available to them and they will be invited to respond to comments made in a termly self-assessment. This will allow students to review their own progress and to highlight any difficulties they feel they are facing.

Assessment

Thesis

A thesis is the significant part of the means by which students are assessed for their degree. 48 months after the start of a student's PhD programme they will be expected to have completed and submitted a thesis ca. 60,000 words.

Once a student's thesis is submitted two Examiners will read the dissertation and each will write a separate report. They will then arrange to give students a viva voce in which they will closely question them about any and all aspects of their work. They will write a joint report on the viva. The viva is an opportunity for the Examiners to make sure students fully understand their work and for them to explain, if necessary, any of the more abstruse aspects of their experimental findings. 

Essays

Once students have arrived in the Department and begun to settle into their Research Groups one of the first activities they must undertake is the preparation of their Project Proposal. The purpose of this Project Proposal is to accustom students to academic writing, and to provide an important opportunity to clarify their research project and the techniques to be used. 

Written examination

Nine months into the PhD students are asked to submit a First Year Report. This is the Department’s formal means of assessing student's progress and deciding whether they should carry on for a PhD degree. It is an opportunity for an extended piece of writing and a discussion about, and a defence of, their work to date and their plans for the future. 

• 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

Full Description

The Plant Sciences program at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience, preparing students for careers in plant biology, agriculture, environmental science, and related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, with an integrated curriculum that covers plant genetics, physiology, ecology, and biotechnology. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, extensive library resources, and fieldwork opportunities, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in plant research and conservation. The program is structured to develop analytical thinking, laboratory proficiency, and an understanding of the global challenges related to food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture. Graduates of Plant Sciences from Cambridge are well-equipped for research roles, further academic study, or careers in industry, government, and non-profit sectors. The program also fosters interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore connections between plant sciences and other disciplines such as ecology, biochemistry, and computational biology. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking, original research, and scientific communication, students are prepared to contribute effectively to advancements in plant-related sciences. The course includes seminars, tutorials, and research projects, providing personalized guidance and mentorship from expert faculty members. Overall, the Plant Sciences program aims to produce innovative, knowledgeable, and ethically responsible scientists who can address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges globally.

Financing Studies

Studying Plant Sciences at the University of Cambridge involves various financial considerations, including tuition fees, available scholarships, and funding options. The tuition fees for undergraduate students vary depending on residency status and year of study but are generally in line with other science-based courses at Cambridge. International students typically pay higher fees compared to UK residents. The university offers a range of scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students financially. These include college-based awards, competitive merit-based scholarships, and need-based funding schemes. Prospective students are encouraged to explore options such as the Cambridge Trust, which provides substantial grants for both undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, some colleges offer their own financial support packages to assist with living costs and tuition. Students are also advised to investigate external funding opportunities, including government-sponsored loans, grants, and sponsor organizations, especially for international students. The University’s financial aid office provides guidance on eligibility and application procedures for various funding sources. It’s important for students to plan their finances well in advance of commencing studies, considering expenses related to accommodation, materials, and living costs alongside tuition. The university promotes financial transparency and strives to make its programs accessible to talented students regardless of their economic background. For detailed and current information on tuition fees, scholarships, and financial support, students should consult the university’s official website or contact the admissions and student funding offices directly.

The Plant Sciences undergraduate program at the University of Cambridge offers students an in-depth exploration of plant biology, covering a wide range of topics from molecular biology and genetics to ecology and environmental sciences. The programme is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of how plants grow, develop, and interact with their environment, as well as their importance in agriculture, industry, and ecological systems. Students will gain practical laboratory skills, fieldwork experience, and a solid grounding in the theoretical principles underlying contemporary plant sciences. The course typically spans three years for a standard undergraduate degree, with options for specializations and interdisciplinary study, including interactions with other biological sciences and environmental studies. Cambridge’s world-renowned faculty and research facilities enable students to engage with cutting-edge research and innovative technologies, such as genomics, crop science, and conservation biology. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in research, agriculture, environmental consultancy, or further academic study. In addition to coursework and practical sessions, students participate in seminars, workshops, and projects that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program may involve opportunities for field trips and collaborative projects with industry partners, enhancing real-world understanding. Overall, the Plant Sciences degree at Cambridge combines rigorous scientific training with practical application, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address global challenges related to food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.