Biochemistry, University of Oxford - Skaggs scholarships

What the Skaggs-Oxford scholarship gives you

You will receive a fully funded five-year doctoral scholarship (PhD/DPhil), split between Scripps Research in California or Florida and the University of Oxford. For the part of your studies at Scripps Research, you will receive an annual living allowance of USD 45,760 for 2025-26. Your tuition fees at Oxford will be fully covered. You will conduct research at two leading institutions, work with at least two supervisors – one at each institution – and complete the programme with a joint degree recognised by both institutions. The Skaggs Foundation funds the programme, which is run jointly by Scripps Research and the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Oxford.

Who can apply

• Degree level: You would like to undertake a five-year PhD programme in biology, chemistry or biochemistry.
• Field of study: Your research aligns with one of the programme’s themes, such as cancer and cell biology, chemical biology, drug discovery, immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience or RNA biology.
• Grades: You must hold a British university degree at ‘First’ or ‘Upper Second Class’ level (2:1) or an equivalent qualification from another country.
• English: If your degree is not from a British or North American university, you will need an IELTS score of 7.0 (with 7.0 in each section) or a TOEFL score of 650 (280 computer-based).
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.

How to apply

You should first apply online to Scripps Research and select ‘Skaggs-Oxford’ as your programme. The application deadline is 1 December. A joint committee comprising representatives from Scripps and Oxford will review the applications and invite shortlisted candidates to an interview. If you are successful at this stage, you will then need to submit a separate application to the University of Oxford; this application must also be successful for you to be admitted.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a single, highly prestigious degree programme with around four places available each year and approximately 100 applications, meaning competition is very fierce. Academic ability is the key factor in the selection process. Good grades, along with references demonstrating independence and creativity in the laboratory, will help applicants stand out from the crowd. If your background and research interests clearly align with one of the programme’s topics and you have a first-class degree, you have a genuine chance – but be prepared for a demanding two-stage selection process.