Browse PhDs in Biochemistry
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PhD Studentship in Auditory Neuroscience – Unravelling the Neurobiological Basis of Tinnitus by Studying its Initial Onset and Subsequent Chronification
Newcastle University Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle, England -
Biologically-Plausible Neural Network Models of Movement Control Algorithms
University of Sheffield Department of Computer ScienceSheffield, England -
The Functions of The Class Ii Pi3-Kinase Signals in Vivo
University of Manchester Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthManchester, England
What does a PhD in Biochemistry Involve?
A Biochemistry PhD can involve specialising in a wide range of different subjects. This may include performing research on the structure of proteins, investigating cell metabolism, bioenergetics, cellular stress and biochemical factors within the nervous system. You may be performing research in functional genomics, viral biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or better understanding the immune processes.
How long does it take to get a PhD in Biochemistry?
In the UK, a full-time doctoral student will usually take 3 years to complete their PhD in Biochemistry. Part-time PhD students should expect to take closer to 6 years to complete their research project.
Most Biochemistry PhD students will first register as MPhil students, typically completing an upgrade viva after 18 months, before officially becoming registered as a PhD student. Whilst your supervisor will provide mentorship, it’s ultimately the responsibility of postgraduate students to ensure their project and studies run on time and that they meet the deadlines expected of them.
What are the typical entry requirements for a Biochemistry PhD Programme?
Most UK universities require at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or the equivalent grade from a university outside of the UK. The degree will need to have been in a field that’s relevant to Biochemistry.
If English is not your first language, you will be required to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. Usually this is a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5 for research programmes however this may be higher from one university to another.
How much does a Biochemistry PhD cost?
UK based postgraduate research students will pay annual tuition fees of around £4,500/year. Part time students should expect to pay lower fees, with some variability between institutions about how this is calculated.
For international students (including now EU students), the annual tuition fee is approximately £23,500/year, equating to £70,500 over the span of 3 years.
As with every PhD degree, potential students will need to consider additional costs such as living costs and any bench fees that may be expected by their particular project or graduate school. It’s a good idea to discuss these with your potential supervisors before starting your postgraduate degree.
What can you do with a PhD in Biochemistry?
Earning a PhD in Biochemistry can open up a lot of options for you for career development. Some stay within academia, working their way through the roles of post-doctoral research, lecturer and perhaps even professor. Others build their careers outside of the university environment. This may involve becoming a microbiologist, medical scientist, toxicologist, environmental scientist or a biochemist (to name a few jobs).
During your postgraduate study, you’ll be presented with many opportunities to further your skills and knowledge. Make sure you also find an opportunity for networking as this could be very beneficial in finding new opportunities after you graduate (your academic supervisor may be able to introduce you to key contacts).