UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM · UNITED KINGDOM
Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology PhD/MRes
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€51k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3-4 yearsDuration
- Bespoke research projectsCustomisation
- Industry-standard facilitiesResources
- Vibrant postgraduate communitySupport
- MRes or PhD optionsDegree Level
Pursue a research degree tailored to your specific interests in Synthetic Biology or Biotechnology at the University of Nottingham. This program allows you to define your own research area, working under the guidance of leading supervisors utilizing industry-standard facilities and cutting-edge equipment. You will contribute to advancing the life sciences field. The MRes program offers a more focused research experience with transferable skills training, while the PhD is an in-depth, independent research project culminating in a thesis and viva voce examination. You are encouraged to connect with a potential supervisor early in the process to discuss your research ideas.
Curriculum
Choose between a PhD for in-depth research over 3-4 years, requiring a thesis and viva voce, or a Master of Research (MRes) for a 12-month program with substantial research and 20 credits of transferable skills training. The MRes can also include additional taught modules if agreed with your supervisor. Your research area will be developed in consultation with academic staff.
- Year 1 (MRes)
- Transferable Skills Training
- PhD (Years 1-4)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology PhD/MRes programme?
- International PhD fees vary by project type: £24,300 (low-cost), £33,800 (lab-based), £39,600 (high-cost lab-based), or £44,000 (exceptional). The MRes fee is £33,000. Contact life-sciences-pgr@nottingham.ac.uk for specific project costs.
- What are the entry requirements for this programme?
- For PhD, a minimum of a British Honours Degree with a 2:1 or equivalent is required. An IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component is needed for English language proficiency, if applicable.
- How long does the programme take to complete?
- The Master of Research (MRes) is a 12-month program, while the PhD is an in-depth research project typically lasting 3-4 years.
- How do I apply for the PhD or MRes in Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology?
- You should first identify and contact a potential supervisor to discuss your research interests and refine your research proposal. After securing a supervisor, you can submit your formal application through the University of Nottingham's postgraduate application portal.
- When is the application deadline and when does the programme start?
- Applications typically open well in advance of the intake date. The next intake for this programme is in October 2026.
Entry requirements
British Honours DegreeMinimum 2:1 or equivalent for PhD. For applicants currently studying a UK Master's, a minimum average of 60% (Merit) in taught elements is accepted if an undergraduate 2:1 or equivalent has been achieved.
IELTS6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each component)
Alternative qualifications and relevant work experience will be considered on an individual basis. Contact the university if you are unsure about your qualifications.
Fees
Tuition (international)PhD: £24,300 (low-cost), £33,800 (lab-based), £39,600 (high-cost lab-based) or £44,000 (exceptional/specialised projects). MRes: £33,000. For specific project costs, contact life-sciences-pgr@nottingham.ac.uk.
Tuition (home)£5,260 per year for both PhD and MRes.
LivingNot specified.
Home fees are provisional for 2026/27 and subject to confirmation. Fees are for full-time study and may be subject to inflationary increases.
How to apply
1. Identify and Contact a SupervisorReview the supervisor lists for Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology and contact an academic whose research aligns with your interests. Discuss your proposed research ideas with them.
2. Develop Your Research ProposalWork with your prospective supervisor to refine your research proposal, which is a key component of your application.
3. Submit ApplicationFollow the steps on the University of Nottingham's postgraduate application portal, likely requiring your research proposal and supporting documents.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology PhD/MRes programme?
+
International PhD fees vary by project type: £24,300 (low-cost), £33,800 (lab-based), £39,600 (high-cost lab-based), or £44,000 (exceptional). The MRes fee is £33,000. Contact life-sciences-pgr@nottingham.ac.uk for specific project costs.
What are the entry requirements for this programme?
+
For PhD, a minimum of a British Honours Degree with a 2:1 or equivalent is required. An IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component is needed for English language proficiency, if applicable.
How long does the programme take to complete?
+
The Master of Research (MRes) is a 12-month program, while the PhD is an in-depth research project typically lasting 3-4 years.
How do I apply for the PhD or MRes in Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology?
+
You should first identify and contact a potential supervisor to discuss your research interests and refine your research proposal. After securing a supervisor, you can submit your formal application through the University of Nottingham's postgraduate application portal.
When is the application deadline and when does the programme start?
+
Applications typically open well in advance of the intake date. The next intake for this programme is in October 2026.