Synthetic Biology

Synthetic Biology at the University of Oxford is an interdisciplinary, cutting-edge program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to engineer and redesign biological systems. This programme integrates principles from biology, engineering, computer science, and chemistry to enable the development of novel biological devices and systems with applications across medicine, industry, and environmental science. Students will explore fundamental topics such as genetic engineering, molecular biology, systems biology, and quantitative modelling, alongside practical training in laboratory techniques and bioinformatics. The course emphasizes innovative thinking, problem-solving, and experimental design, preparing graduates to contribute to advancements in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, sustainable energy, and environmental conservation. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and collaborative projects, students will gain both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in designing synthetic biological parts, constructing genetic circuits, and implementing biological functions. The programme also fosters critical awareness of ethical, safety, and societal considerations involved in synthetic biology research and applications. Candidates will have opportunities to engage with renowned researchers and industry partners, participating in seminars, workshops, and internships that provide real-world context and networking prospects. Upon completion, graduates will be well-positioned for careers in academia, research institutions, biotech companies, or for further academic study. The MSc in Synthetic Biology at Oxford is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, interdisciplinary approach, and emphasis on innovation, making it an ideal choice for students passionate about shaping the future of biological engineering and harnessing the power of biology for societal benefit.

This doctoral training programme combines the fundamental understanding of biological systems with the principles of engineering, so as to create the next generation of industrial and academic leaders in this nascent field. The CDT focuses on the design and engineering of biologically based parts, novel devices and systems, as well as the redesign of existing natural biological systems across all scales for molecules to organisms.

SynBioCDT builds on the multidisciplinary expertise offered by the research environment at the Universities of Oxford, Bristol and Warwick to provide training to cover all aspects of this extremely broad remit, including not only individual cells, but also self-assembled biomimetic systems, engineered microbial communities and multicellular organisms.

The training programme has been created in partnership with industrial, academic and public-facing organisations and includes responsible innovation, transferrable skills and outreach activities. SynBioCDT will endow you with the necessary skills to fulfil the potential of synthetic biology and to have a strong impact in this area.

The first seven months of the course are devoted to acquiring advanced theoretical and technical skills that form the backbone of synthetic biology, drawing from the engineering, mathematical, physical, chemical and biological sciences through a combination of intensive lecture courses and project work. Each taught module lasts for either one, two or three weeks and is assessed using a method appropriate to the course, for example, presentations, group assignments or assessed written work. This will be complemented with relevant research and communication skills training throughout the four years of the programme.

After completion of the taught training phase, two exploratory research projects of eleven weeks' duration each are undertaken, at least one of which will be in the institution to which the candidate is admitted (Oxford, Warwick or Bristol). The DPhil project then follows, also based primarily in the host institution.

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 physical sciences (eg engineering, physics, plant sciences, chemistry, statistics, mathematics, computing) or life sciences (eg biology, biochemistry) with the capacity to develop strong mathematical skills. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

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.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:1,000 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The MSc in Synthetic Biology at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive financing package to support prospective students throughout their studies. Funding options include a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs designed to ease the financial burden and enable talented students to pursue their academic goals. The university's department actively encourages applicants to explore external funding opportunities such as government grants, research council awards, and private scholarships, which may be available based on merit, need, nationality, or specific criteria related to scientific research.

Internally, students enrolling in the MSc programme can benefit from a range of scholarships dedicated to applicants in STEM fields, including those specifically for students demonstrating excellence in synthetic biology or related disciplines. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees, and sometimes provide a stipend to assist with living expenses. The university also promotes financial planning and offers advice on loan options, part-time work opportunities, and external funding sources to help students manage their finances effectively during their studies.

The Financial aid office at Oxford provides detailed guidance on applying for funding, including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. Prospective students are encouraged to review available funding sources early in the application process to maximize their chances of securing financial support. Additionally, some departments or research groups may have dedicated grants or assistantship positions, offering students further financial support in exchange for research assistance or teaching duties.

It is important to note that the cost of studying at Oxford includes tuition fees, which vary depending on the student's nationality and the specific programme structure, as well as living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and educational materials. The university suggests budgeting for these costs and actively recommends seeking financial advice well before the commencement of studies to ensure proper financial planning.

Finally, the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion signifies a focus on supporting students from various backgrounds through targeted funding initiatives, ensuring that talented individuals have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research and education without financial barriers. Overall, Oxford’s financing studies aim to provide a robust support framework to facilitate access and success for all admitted students of the MSc in Synthetic Biology.

Synthetic Biology at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and cutting-edge multidisciplinary programme that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to innovate in the rapidly evolving field of synthetic biology. This programme integrates principles from biology, engineering, and computer science to enable students to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems, or to re-design existing natural biological systems for useful purposes.

The curriculum covers fundamental concepts in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, alongside advanced topics such as genetic circuit design, metabolic engineering, and bioprocessing. Students gain practical experience through laboratory work, including gene editing techniques, DNA assembly, and the use of emerging technologies like CRISPR-Cas systems. Additionally, the programme emphasizes computational approaches, data analysis, and modeling, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of synthetic biology.

Students have opportunities to collaborate with research groups working on real-world problems, such as sustainable biofuel production, environmental biosensors, and novel pharmaceuticals. The programme is designed to foster innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, biotechnology industries, and policy development.

The teaching faculty comprises leading experts in synthetic biology, many of whom are involved in pioneering research. The programme benefits from state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities at the University of Oxford. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, expanding their professional network and staying current with emerging trends.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to contribute to the development of transformative biotechnologies and to address global challenges through synthetic biology solutions. The programme’s structure includes coursework, practical training, and a research project or dissertation, culminating in a master's degree or a doctoral qualification. Overall, the Oxford Synthetic Biology programme offers a rigorous, innovative education that prepares students to become leaders in this exciting and impactful field.