Fully Funded PhD in Biotechnology in UK
Pursuing a PhD in Biotechnology is a huge academic milestone, as biotechnology is one of the most advanced courses today, blending science, engineering, and technology. However, studying this course can be financially draining due to the advanced nature of the course and the amount of resources needed to to properly study and gain the required skills. This can be a major roadblock to students and researchers who want to take their expertise to the next level, especially after completing a bachelor’s or master’s program.
Due to the reoccurrence of such major roadblocks that affect the progression of some passionate and innovative minds in the UK, several organizations and institutions have set up funds, scholarship grants, and programs to provide the finances and resources needed for their academic and research journey.
These organizations are strong supporters and promoters of biotechnology and aid to drive innovation and collaboration through these fellowships, where deserving fellows are given the access and opportunity to further their studies and collaborate with industry experts and colleagues in order to contribute to the advancing field of biotechnology.
These programs provide up to £90,000 in funding for PhD students, covering tuition, travel expenses, research, and even living expenses for the duration of the program. In this article, we’ll be looking at four fully funded biotechnology programs in the UK, giving you a complete guide to how these programs work and why they can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
1. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, established in 1209, is one of the oldest and biggest universities in the world today. It is located in the city of Cambridge; the university has a historic yet modern camp setting that is surrounded by a serene waterside view, impressive architecture, and world-class research facilities that provide a conducive environment for best academic practices and innovative inspiration.
The university is known for its contribution to groundbreaking discoveries and innovation in various industries. The University of Cambridge stands as a historic center for innovation in various fields, where students are engaged in their field of study or research in order to reach the highest level of excellence in their area of study. The University runs a DPhil program in Biotechnology through the Department of Biochemistry.
This prestigious university understands how difficult it can be to take a PhD in a course like biotechnology, especially after the completion of a BSc and MSc degree. The Department of Biochemistry at Cambridge University offers a fully funded PhD in Biotechnology through the Gates Cambridge Foundation.
This program is awarded annually to deserving applicants, assisting them with finance and resources. This funding package provides support for students and researchers alike, covering tuition, annual stipend, travel allowance, and research budget. This is to make sure that students get the proper training they deserve, preparing them for roles in academic, government, and entrepreneurial industries without any distractions.
Application Deadline: May every year
2. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh, established in 1582, is one of the biggest institutions in Scotland. It is located in the vibrant capital city of Edinburgh, the university has a rich deep-rooted culture and spirited campus that promotes a rich work-life relationship balance. The university, which is regarded as one of the best destinations for biotechnology studies, is well-equipped with advanced scientific and technological research centers and equipment.
The University offers a fully funded PhD program in Biotechnology through the Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships, with specialization in agricultural biotechnology, molecular biology, and biobased materials. This program covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research grants, which would automatically allow you to enjoy the facilities and multidisciplinary collaborations the university offers.
Application Deadline: October every year
3. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester, established in 1824, is one of the UK’s top research-intensive universities. Located in the heart of Manchester, the university boasts a world-class academic environment, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong reputation for innovation. With a vibrant campus spanning 667 acres, Manchester is home to over 40,000 students from more than 160 countries, fostering a diverse and intellectually stimulating community.
The university is well known for its contributions to scientific breakthroughs, including the discovery of graphene, and is committed to driving global advancements in technology, healthcare, and engineering.
The Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health at the University of Manchester offers a fully funded PhD in Biotechnology, which you can check out here. The program helps students who are passionate about biomedical innovations, synthetic biology, and genetic engineering. This research-intensive program equips students with the knowledge and tools to develop groundbreaking solutions in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and pharmaceutical sciences.
The program is supported by leading research centers such as the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), which provides state-of-the-art laboratories, interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, and industry partnerships. Fully funded PhD students receive tuition fee waivers, an annual stipend of approximately £18,500, and additional research funding, allowing them to focus on their studies without financial concerns.
Application Deadline: December each year.
4. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a public research institution in London, England. It was established in the year 1907, as Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, merged the Royal College of Science, City and Guilds of London, and Royal School of Mines together to form the Imperial College of Science and Technology, which marked the establishment of the Imperial College, London.
The university is made up of several distinct schools and colleges, one of them being the renowned Institute of Chemical Biology. It has since then served as one of the science capitals of London and the greater United Kingdom.
The Institute of Chemical Biology, through the EPSRC Center for Doctoral Training, offers a fully funded PhD in Biotechnology program to support and empower biotech innovation in the UK. The program runs in three phases, where the first year covers MRes in Chemical Biology and bioentrepreneurship. Then, the remaining two phases are based on Chemical Biology. This would help make sure that students are well-grounded in the field of biotechnology and can properly apply innovative techniques to biology, chemistry, and technological research. This program helps students with financial aid that covers tuition, living stipends, and research grants for the five years of study.
Application Deadline: Around the first quarter of the year.
Disclaimer:
The term “fully funded” is used to address a financial aid package where a student’s educational expenses are being taken care of. This may include;
- Full tuition payment: The total cost of tuition has been waived.
- Stipend/ Salary: A pre-agreed allowance is given to the student to cover living costs and other expenses during the program.
However, It is important to note that this is totally dependent on several factors such as lifestyle, cost of living, location, and other financial needs. Sometimes, the term “fully funded” is used by some programs even though they don’t provide for all your financial needs, expecting that you see them through part-time work, intensional, or personal savings.
These programs usually expect students with fully funded offers to teach and conduct research while studying as part of the funding arrangement. It is also important to note that all universities offer full funding, and students should, therefore, explore financial aid opportunities from various schools (including less popular and well-known ones) in order to find the one that perfectly meets their financial needs.
