Undertake research in cutting-edge data science methods and learn how these can be applied across a variety of health-related fields on this research degree. Projects can involve developing advanced algorithms or applying machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical methods to groundbreaking biomedical research. The Department of Health Data Science, within the Institute of Population Health, conducts high-impact research and has strong connections with civic health collaborators. This provides postgraduate researchers with excellent access to policymakers, ensuring a dynamic experience in using data science to inform policy decisions. The department has a proven track record of research funding and is committed to excellence in both methodological and applied research, offering an ideal environment to develop advanced skills in machine learning, statistics, and data science.
This is a research-focused degree. You will develop your own research project under the guidance of academic supervisors. Research topics span a wide range of areas within health data science.
Graduates develop advanced skills in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modelling, applicable to a wide range of health and research sectors. The programme prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, healthcare organisations, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Applicants are encouraged to identify potential supervisors and contact them before submitting an application. The application process is managed through an online portal. Specific country-based entry requirements may apply and can be checked on the university website.
Fees are for the 2026/27 academic year and may be subject to inflationary rises in subsequent years. Additional costs for books, equipment, etc., may apply.
For the 2026/27 academic year, the tuition fee for international students is £32,200 per year for full-time study. Fees may be subject to inflationary rises in subsequent years.
The PhD programme can be completed in 3-4 years of full-time study, or 1-6 years if studied part-time.
You will need a strong academic record, typically a Bachelor's degree. While a specific subject background can be beneficial depending on your research project, identifying and contacting potential supervisors whose research aligns with your interests is strongly encouraged before applying.
You will need to provide a research proposal, university transcripts and degree certificates, passport details, English language certificates (if applicable), a personal statement, a CV, and contact details for two referees and two proposed supervisors.
Yes, the University of Liverpool offers scholarships such as the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship, which covers full PhD fees and provides a bursary, and the John Lennon Memorial Scholarship for UK students with connections to Merseyside. Details on eligibility and application are available on the university's scholarships page.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Health Data Scientist, Biostatistician, Research Fellow, Data Analyst in Healthcare, or AI/Machine Learning Specialist within the health sector, research institutions, or the pharmaceutical industry.