Studying your MPhil in Biological Sciences at the MRC Toxicology Unit
The MRC Toxicology Unit provides a supportive learning environment designed to meet the scientific and transferable skills required for an internationally competitive career. Our MPhil Programme aims to deliver advanced level training in molecular toxicology research and to mentor the next generation of toxicologists.
Students are registered for their MPhil with the Graduate School of Life Sciences at the University of Cambridge and have membership of a University of Cambridge College.
The structure of this research programme is a period of supervised research followed by submission of a thesis; it is not expected that students will take taught modules as a requirement of the course.
The training needs specific to a particular research project will be identified and training will be provided in these areas, along with skills training in topics such as research ethics, statistics and bioinformatics. Students may also attend the week-long training event in toxicology provided by the ITTP, the Toxicology Unit’s research seminars and Masterclass seminar series. In addition, students will be encouraged to attend topic-relevant seminars within the University.
How to apply
This degree is available to self-funded students only.
These projects do not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.
- Begin by checking which supervisor in the MRC Toxicology Unit you want to approach. Explore the research groups at the Unit.
- Download and complete our informal application form, paying attention to the guidelines in red.
- Email the completed form to the potential supervisor, stating your intention to apply for a MPhil.
- The potential supervisor will review your email, they may also contact you for an informal discussion.
- Following the initial discussion, the potential supervisor will advise you whether to make a formal application through the Applicant Portal. The course is listed in the Application Portal as "Biological Science (MRC Toxicology Unit) MPhil". It is recommended that you take time to check the application requirements including the documentation you will need to upload.
- The department will review your application and you will be invited to attend interview if shortlisted.
- If your application is successful, a conditional offer is communicated by email and the self-service account.