School of Life Sciences

PhD Postgraduate research in Biomedical Sciences

PhD Full-time 4 years, Part-time 8 years

Our PhD programme in Biomedical Sciences offers an innovative research environment for exploring cutting-edge developments in medical research and therapeutic interventions. Based at the University of Wolverhampton's School of Life Sciences, you'll conduct pioneering research that bridges the gap between basic science and clinical applications.

Our PhD programme in Biomedical Sciences offers an innovative research environment for exploring cutting-edge developments in medical research and therapeutic interventions. Based at the University of Wolverhampton's School of Life Sciences, you'll conduct pioneering research that bridges the gap between basic science and clinical applications.

Award
PhD
Start date(s)
Variable start date
UCAS Code
Course specifications
Course length
Full-time (4 years),Part-time (8 years)
Campus location
University: City Campus
School
School of Life Sciences
UCAS points calculator

Why choose this course?

PhD Supervisor

Photo of Dr Mark Morris

Dr Mark Morris leads a research group within the Research Institute of Healthcare Science (RIHS) investigating the molecular biology and genetics of cancer development.

PhD students at the Wolverhampton School of Sciences are supervised by academics who are leading experts in their particular area of expertise. At least one academic in each supervisory team will have a track record of successful supervisions.

The Wolverhampton School of Sciences prides itself on the levels of support provided to postgraduate research students in the course of their PhD journey. Our academics meet regularly with their supervisees, and work closely with them at all stages of the project, from inception to completion.

The University of Wolverhampton provides a collegiate research environment and first-class facilities to its PhD students, including a dedicated postgraduate research room, access to the University’s Harrison Learning Centre and leading databases in the electronic resources.

Postgraduate research students are encouraged to present their research to University academics and fellow PhD students at colloquia within the Wolverhampton School of Sciences, which provide an encouraging and friendly environment for students to sharpen their research and presentation skills.

Our postgraduate research students are afforded the opportunity to develop their research skills through participation in training events organised by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the University’s Doctoral College.

What's unique about this course?

  • Specialist Facilities: Access to advanced biomedical laboratories with clinical research equipment
  • Expert Supervision: Work alongside leading biomedical researchers with proven supervision experience
  • Translational Focus: Bridge laboratory research with clinical applications
  • Research Excellence: Regular biomedical science seminars and symposia
  • Industry Links: Strong connections with NHS and healthcare sectors
  • Teaching Experience: Opportunities to support undergraduate practical sessions

What happens on the course?

Your research journey follows three comprehensive milestones, each designed to develop your expertise as a biomedical researcher:

1. Registration and Research Design (First 6 months)

  • Submit detailed research proposal
  • Comprehensive literature review
  • Experimental design planning
  • Ethics committee approval process
  • Initial laboratory training and method development
  • Regular supervisory meetings to refine research direction

2. Progression (18 months full-time/36 months part-time)

  • Submit detailed progress paper including:
    • Literature review
    • Preliminary results
    • Detailed methodology
    • Future research plans
  • Present research at internal symposium
  • Independent assessment by subject experts
  • Feedback and development planning
  • Access to specialist training workshops

3. Advanced Research Phase

  • Implementation of refined methodology
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Regular presentation at research seminars
  • Opportunity to present at external conferences
  • Publication preparation
  • Thesis writing support workshops

4. Final Examination

  • Thesis submission
  • Viva voce examination
  • Final thesis corrections
  • Research dissemination planning

Throughout your studies, you'll benefit from:

  • Monthly research group meetings
  • Quarterly progress reviews
  • Annual research symposium participation
  • Specialist equipment training
  • Publication and grant writing workshops

Research Areas

We welcome research proposals in areas including:

  • Disease Mechanisms and Therapeutics
  • Clinical Diagnostics
  • Drug Discovery and Development
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Cancer Biology
  • Immunology
  • Neuroscience

Potential Career Paths

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

The University of Wolverhampton (UoW) is home to approximate 23,000 students. The UoW’s research and innovation activities have won the 2013 UK Knowledge Transfer Award, and the 2014 UK Collaborative IMPACT award. It is also the holder of the Athena Swan Bronze Award and the HR Excellence in Research Award.

At Wolverhampton, your biomedical research experience is enhanced through our comprehensive support structure. Our School of Life Sciences offers:

  • Advanced Research Environment: Access to our recently upgraded biomedical research facilities and the Harrison Learning Centre's extensive digital resources
  • Professional Development: Regular training through our Faculty of Science and Engineering and Doctoral College, including specialist biomedical techniques workshops
  • Research Community: Join our vibrant research community through our annual University Research Conference, where you can showcase your work and network with fellow researchers
  • Teaching Opportunities: Develop your academic portfolio through our undergraduate teaching programme in biomedical sciences
  • Industry Connections: Benefit from our established partnerships with local NHS trusts, healthcare providers, and biomedical companies
  • Research Support: Access to specialist biomedical databases and journal subscriptions through our library services

Skills You Will Gain

Through your research journey, you'll develop a comprehensive skill set including:

Technical Skills:

  • Advanced Laboratory Techniques
  • Clinical Trial Design
  • Biomedical Imaging
  • Diagnostic Testing Methods
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Bioinformatics

Research Skills:

  • Experimental Design
  • Data Analysis and Interpretation
  • Scientific Writing
  • Research Ethics
  • Grant Writing
  • Literature Review

Professional Skills:

  • Project Management
  • Team Leadership
  • Teaching and Mentoring
  • Presentation Skills
  • Problem-Solving
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Quality Assurance

Transferable Skills:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Budget Management
  • Strategic Planning

Location Mode Fee Year
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4712 per year 2023-24
Home Part-time £2298 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £2298 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £2356 per year 2023-24
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £15450 per year 2023-24

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed

 Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:

 • a first or upper second class honours degree, or

 • a master’s degree, or

 • evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score (or equivalent) of 7.0, with no individual element less than 6.0. The only exemption to this is for students who are not required to do so as per UKVI regulations: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english. 

 

Financial support for research study:

Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.


Government loans (Home Fee Status):

Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £29,390, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.


Studying in the UK:Guidance for EU students

For 2021/22 new entrants, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England.


Self-funded:

We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.


Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:

To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree and/or Masters level qualification, as long as the new award is at a higher level.

For full terms and conditions please see: Loyalty Discount for Postgraduate Research Students


Research councils:

The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.


University Research Studentships:

The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.


Other sources:

Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

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