Research in the School of Biosciences revolves around understanding systems and processes in the living cell. It has a strong molecular focus with leading-edge activities that are synergistic with one another and complementary to the teaching provision.

Our expertise in disciplines such as biochemistry, microbiology and biomedical science allows us to exploit technology and develop groundbreaking ideas in the fields of genetics, molecular biology, protein science, biophysics and computational biology. Fields of enquiry encompass a range of molecular processes from cell division, transcription and translation through to molecular motors, molecular diagnostics and the production of biotherapeutics and bioenergy.

Our research degrees are based around lab-based and computational research projects. PhD study is based around 3-4 year research projects, full time, or 5-6 years part time. In all our research degrees you undertake a single, focused, research project from day one, and attend only certain components of our transferable skills modules. You are supervised by a team which comprises your main supervisor(s) as well as supervisory chairs that give independent advice on progression.

Funded PhD studentships

All of our PhD studentships are allocated to specific 3 or 4 year research projects. The School’s latest PhD opportunities are generally announced from December to June and can be found on the Find a PhD website.

Find a Supervisor for self-funded applicants

Applicants who have private or other funding  are welcome to apply at any time provided that the interests of the applicant are in line with the interests and capabilities of the prospective research group. You are expected to contact the academic(s) you have identified as a possible supervisor via email to discuss the possibility of undertaking a PhD under their supervision. You should explain your interest in the research and supply a CV including details of all relevant experience. Alongside you should make the online application for this programme (click 'Apply now'). Please note that applications will not progress without full identification of a viable funding route.

Additional Research Costs

Please note that, due to the technical requirements of certain laboratory-based research projects, some projects additionally incur additional research costs to support consumable requirements. Additional research costs are typically in the range of £1200 - £2,000 annually, though exceptionally these can be as high as £5,000 for resource-intensive research projects.

Kent & Medway Medical School

Kent is moving forward with the Kent & Medway Medical School (KMMS), due to take the first cohort of students in September 2020.

The Medical School will be a significant addition to the University, with exciting opportunities for education and research in the School of Biosciences.

Think Kent video series

Some believe that the successful are simply "lucky”, but what is luck? Luck, some define, is when preparation meets opportunity. Darren Griffin, Professor of Genetics at the University of Kent, shares some words of wisdom on how to become a successful scientist.

About the School of Biosciences

The School of Biosciences is among the best-funded schools of its kind in the UK, with current support from the BBSRC, NERC, MRC, Wellcome Trust, EU, and industry. It has has 40 academic staff, 56 research staff (facility managers, research fellows, postdoctoral researchers and technicians), approximately 100 postgraduate research students and 20 key support staff. The school's vibrant atmosphere has expanded to become a flourishing environment to study for postgraduate degrees in a notably friendly and supportive teaching and research environment.

In addition to research degrees, our key research strengths underpin a range of unique and career-focused taught Master’s programmes that address key issues and challenges within the biosciences and pharmaceutical industries and prepare graduates for future employment.