Synthetic Biology PhD at Brunel University of London

Programme overview

The overall aim of the Synthetic Biology is to address major environmental, health and societal challenges by engineering biological systems such that they display functions that do not exist in nature, as well as re-designing existing biological systems so that they perform new functions. Our research focuses on three key areas of activity.

Career pathways

You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel. We encourage you to actively engage in career planning and managing your personal development right from the start of your research, even (or perhaps especially) if you don't yet have a career path in mind.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The general University entrance requirement for registration for a research degree is normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1). An interview will be required as part of the admissions process and will be conducted by at least two academic staff members remotely via MS Teams, Zoom, or face to face. Applicants will be required to submit a personal statement and a research statement. Please contact your proposed supervisor, where possible, to receive feedback and guidance on your research statement before submitting it. Learn how to prepare a research statement here. English language: IELTS: 7 (min 6 in all areas).

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). full-time tuition per year Source

International applicants: GBP 24,795 a year (2026/27). full-time tuition per year Source

Intake: January; April; October

Duration: 3 years full-time

Apply through the official page: https://evision.brunel.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?process=siw_ipp_app&code1=SYNTHBIODFTD&code2=0001

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