Summary
Applications are now open for the fully funded Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD Programme, supported by the BBSRC Doctoral Landscape Awards. This programme offers approximately 25 studentships for the 2027 intake, covering full stipend and University tuition fees. Both Targeted and iCASE studentships are available, allowing applicants to select up to two projects from various research areas. The programme welcomes international students, with a limited number of studentships allocated to non-UK candidates, including coverage for student visas and health surcharge.
Designation
PhD Student (BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences)
Scholarship Description
The Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD Programme provides comprehensive funding for PhD studies in Biological Sciences. Studentships include a stipend (currently £21,805 for the 2026–27 academic year) and full University tuition fees. The programme offers two main types of studentships:
- Targeted Studentships: Students select projects from an available list, complete two lab rotations (one associated with the chosen project, another relevant to it), and undertake a 3-month professional internship.
- iCASE Studentships: PhDs are conducted within a University department, including a minimum 3-month internship with an industrial partner linked to the PhD project.
The DTP aims to provide a broad and comprehensive research experience, including professional development and networking opportunities.
Research Area
Biological Sciences (specific projects available via the programme’s website)
Location
University of Cambridge, UK
Eligibility/Qualification
General Eligibility:
- Applicants should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree or its international equivalent.
- International students (EU and non-EU) are eligible to apply. The DTP can offer a limited number of studentships to international candidates (up to 30% of the cohort, e.g., up to 7 out of 25 studentships).
For detailed international qualification equivalencies, please refer to the University’s International Qualifications page.
Specific Requirements:
- Two academic and/or professional references are required.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants should apply through the University’s Applicant Portal. The course is listed as BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences.
Application Steps:
- Select Projects: You can apply for up to two projects, which can be any combination of Targeted or iCASE projects. You may contact supervisors directly to discuss projects, though this is not mandatory and does not influence assessment.
- Complete the Application Form:
- Project Reference: Enter the correct project reference (e.g.,
TRG-YYY-XXorICS-XXX-YY) exactly as it appears in the project advertisement. - Project Title: Enter the project title exactly as it appears in the advertisement, ensuring it matches the project reference.
- Statement of Interest: For each selected project, provide a brief statement explaining your interest in the research topic, any relevant discussions with supervisors, and highlight relevant experience, skills, or coursework.
- Short Written Responses: Provide responses covering your motivation for a PhD, innovative thinking, problem-solving, independence, knowledge of recent developments, understanding of research processes, and technical skills.
- Contextual Information: Optionally, provide additional contextual information about your undergraduate study for a better understanding of your circumstances.
- Project Reference: Enter the correct project reference (e.g.,
- References: Ensure two academic and/or professional references are submitted by the deadline. Applications can be submitted before references, but all supporting documents must be received by the closing date.
Application Process After Submission:
- Applications are reviewed after the closing date.
- A two-stage selection process involves initial shortlisting and interviews by supervisors/departments, followed by a second interview with the DTP Research Committee. All interviews will be conducted online.
Last Date for Apply
Tuesday, 8 December 2026
Apply Link
Apply for BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences
For available projects, visit: Targeted Projects and iCASE Projects
