Rothamsted Research (Rres), University of Nottingham - Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Doctoral Training Programme

What the BBDTP gives you

At the University of Nottingham, you will receive a fully funded four-year PhD scholarship. Your tuition fees will be covered, and you will receive a monthly living allowance – a regular payment to cover your living costs. This means you can study without having to pay tuition fees or work part-time. The University of Nottingham runs the programme in partnership with Nottingham Trent University. It is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI-BBSRC). Alongside your research, you will undertake a three-month professional placement outside your laboratory (known as a PIPS) to develop skills for a career outside academia. Furthermore, you will not be conducting your research alone, but as part of a group of other PhD students. Your research will fall within one of three thematic areas: sustainable agriculture and food (including alternative protein sources), life sciences for human health (including RNA biology and therapeutics), or biotechnology for sustainable growth (including genomics and bioengineering).

Who can apply

• Degree: You hold, or are due to obtain, a first-class degree.
• Field of study: You have a degree in life sciences.
• Where you study: He is doing his PhD at the University of Nottingham in the UK.
• Nationality: EU applicants can apply.
• Timing: Applications must be submitted before the start of the PhD programme, during the application round that takes place prior to the start date in October.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online via the BBDTP website. The deadline for applications is 10 July. Prior to this, there will be an open day where you can find out more about the projects on offer.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a highly sought-after, fully-funded PhD position within a renowned UK research programme, which is why highly qualified applicants from all areas of the life sciences apply. Your chances depend on your background being closely aligned with one of the three research topics and on you having excellent grades in a relevant subject. A clear match with a specific project, as well as applying early – which will allow you to attend the open day and prepare accordingly – will work in your favour.