PhD Physiology and pharmacology at University of Reading

Programme overview

PhD research degree in physiology and pharmacology at the University of Reading, completed through an original research project written up as a thesis of up to 90,000 words.

Faculty: School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy | Department: Reading School of Pharmacy | Duration: 3-4 years full-time (4-6 years part-time) | Intake: September (most students); a smaller number start in the second semester | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent original research supervised by an academic team, written up as a thesis (up to 90,000 words) and examined by viva; training is provided through the Doctoral and Researcher College.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally an undergraduate degree of at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) or a master's degree, in a subject related to the proposed PhD topic. In some areas, particularly arts, humanities, social sciences and business, applicants are normally only accepted with a master's-level qualification. Applicants in arts, humanities, social sciences and business usually submit a research proposal; applicants to advertised projects or studentships do not need one. English language for international applicants: most PhD programmes require IELTS 6.5 overall; the exact requirement is set in the offer. Apply at least two months (UK) or four months (international) before the start date; most students start in September.

Requirements published at program group level.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Home/Republic of Ireland full-time PhD fee, payable each year of the programme; research expenses may be charged on top for some programmes Source

International applicants: GBP 24,450 a year (2026/27). International fee band 2, full-time; research expenses may be charged on top for some programmes Source

Intake: September (most students); a smaller number start in the second semester

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-6 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.reading.ac.uk/doctoral-researcher-college/doctoral-opportunities/how-to-apply

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