The MPhil in Biological Sciences by Advanced Study is a full-time programme offering students the opportunity to undertake a period of study and lab-based research in an area of scientific importance and interest. These include:

• Biomolecular Science
• Cell Science
• Crop Science
• Developmental Biology
• Infection Biology and Molecular Immunology
• Reproduction and Embryogenesis

At the heart of this new programme is a commitment to give more students the opportunity to experience the excitement of scientific research in one of the world’s leading research universities. We aim to bring together motivated students with different lived experiences, bridging the gap between less research-intensive undergraduate degrees and further postgraduate education. A year of in-depth research study, in a supportive environment, combines more specialised teaching with professional skills training. At the end of the Master’s course, students will be fully equipped for a wide range of careers, including advanced research in industry or to apply to any competitive doctoral programme.

This new multi-pathway master’s course is now open for applications and applications close on 16th May 2023. If you have any queries, please contact the MPhil Coordinator, Anita Kovacs.

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.

1. Begin by checking which supervisor in the MRC Toxicology Unit you want to approach. Explore the research groups at the Unit.
2. Download and complete our informal application form, paying attention to the guidelines in red.
3. Email the completed form to the potential supervisor, stating your intention to apply for a MPhil.
4. The potential supervisor will review your email, they may also contact you for an informal discussion.
5. 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.
6. The department will review your application and you will be invited to attend interview if shortlisted.
7. If your application is successful, a conditional offer is communicated by email and the self-service account.