Master of Philosophy in Biological Science (Sanger Institute) by thesis at University of Cambridge

Programme overview

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is a world leader in genome research that delivers insights into human, evolutionary and pathogen biology. We apply and explore genomic technologies to advance understanding of biology and improve health. The Institute occasionally takes on research MPhil students, provided they have the support of a faculty member.

Faculty: School of the Biological Sciences | Department: Wellcome Sanger Institute | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: January 2027, April 2027, October 2027, January 2028, April 2028 | Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Assessment is by submission of a thesis and an oral examination. They will also be expected to have attended courses or lectures on general research and transferable skills, covering subjects such as bioinformatics, statistics, research integrity, scientific writing and presentation skills, together with the Institute’s Postgraduate Student Lecture Series and student journal club. Thesis / Dissertation The examination for the one-year full-time or two-year part-time MPhil degree consists of a thesis of not more than 20,000 words in length, exclusive of tables, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a Good II.i Honours Degree. Applicants are expected to hold, or be about to achieve, a 1st class or a good 2:1 UK Honours degree or equivalent overseas qualification in a relevant scientific subject. English language: IELTS (Academic) 7.0 overall (Listening 7.0, Writing 7.0, Reading 6.5, Speaking 7.0). International applicants needing a visa require ATAS clearance after an offer.

Domestic applicants: GBP 14,562 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

International applicants: GBP 42,546 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

Intake: January 2027, April 2027, October 2027, January 2028, April 2028

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blsimpbsc/apply

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