PhDs in Life Sciences

We offer a range of different programmes. Some involve rotation projects whilst others are focused on a single research area.

On this page

Within the School of Life Sciences (SLS), we investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying health and disease in humans, animals, plants, parasites and bacteria. There are many reasons to join us!

  • Our discovery research cuts across many themes, we promote interdisciplinarity and have close links with industry
  • The University of Dundee is the top ranked University in the UK for Biological Sciences research (REF 2021)
  • You’ll have access to specialist staff and equipment to support your research
  • You’ll join our SLS Postgraduate Researcher community (PiCLS), with a dedicated society to foster professional and social engagement within SLS
  • You’ll be supported by dedicated Professional Services and Academic Staff along your research journey, providing pastoral support, training and mentoring.

Current opportunities

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Funded opportunities and projects for candidates who are self-funded or who have government sponsorship

Explore our current PhD opportunities

PhD programmes

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A PhD Programme offers a fully funded PhD opportunity

Programmes support multiple PGRs each year, providing a cohort of researchers working within a common research theme.

Explore our PhD programmes

International partnerships

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We are partnered with international governments and organisations who sponsor PhD scholarships for students in Asia, including China and Indonesia.

Learn more about our international partnerships

Prize studentships & scholarships

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The School benefits from charitable donations which support individual PhD opportunities.

Learn more about our prize studentships and scholarships

Masters by Research

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This one year (or two years if part time) course enables you to carry out an in depth research project, working alongside our world renowned experts.

Learn more about our Masters in Research

Life Science PGR office contacts

We encourage prospective PGR students to contact us directly to find out more about our PhD opportunities.

SLS PGR Team

Application guidance

Life Sciences building

Information to help you complete your application form.

Read our application guidance