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Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) Integrated PhD

Most students complete this programme in 4 years full-time

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This is a specialised PhD Programme that follows an agreed research training model in bioinformatics.

Students will develop an understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of life, and its applications in health, medicine or food biosecurity, preparing you for a career in research or industry.

Biosciences research has huge impact in helping people live longer and healthier lives. With the World Economic Forum identifying healthcare as one of the top 10 Global Challenges for 2030, there is a growing demand for specialists in this field. This course provides you with an understanding of the molecular basis of biological systems and focuses on applying this knowledge to improve human health and disease, food biosecurity and sustainable biotechnologies.

With the successful completion of the programme, you will graduate with the specialist knowledge and employability skills for a career in academic, clinical, industrial or commercial sectors anywhere in the world. Recent examples of graduate roles include a Bionformatics Consultant, an Analyst, a Production Technician and an Agricultural Engineer.

Find out what our research graduates go on to do

Find out about the department's research subgroup activities.

Programme structure

Most students complete this programme in 4 years. You cannot take less than 3 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 5 years.

You will start this programme in September.

Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

Your academic progress and general welfare will be monitored by your supervisor.

Academic milestones

  1. Registration
  2. Induction
  3. Taught phase
  4. Candidature
  5. Confirmation
  6. Research
  7. Writing up
  8. Give notice of intention to submit a thesis / portfolio
  9. Submission for examination
  10. Examination (Viva Voce)
  11. Examiners report
  12. Final submission of thesis / portfolio
  13. Graduation

Programme content

Learning

  • Doctoral skills online
  • Doctoral skills workshop
  • Interaction and networking
  • Laboratory sessions
  • Lectures
  • Online resources
  • Practical sessions
  • Research project
  • Seminars
  • Supervisory team
  • Tutorials
  • Video materials
  • Workshops

Taught content

For the Integrated PhD in Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) programme you will be enrolled on the MSc Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) in your first year. You will take courses at Master’s-level, where you will be expected to undertake training through two research projects and critically analyse research through seminar presentations and written work.

The unique course structure is designed in consultation with clinical and industrial partners to give you the specialist knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in molecular biosciences. You’ll gain extensive research experience by carrying out two research projects, working in dedicated postgraduate labs and with researchers from the Department of Life Sciences.

The course also includes a ‘Broadening horizons’ unit, giving you the opportunity to further strengthen your employability by doing a project addressing the challenges of global environment sustainability. You’ll apply your skills related to either entrepreneurship, teaching, media and communication, or public engagement.

Your MSc will be awarded upon successful completion of both the MSc and doctoral research stage of the programme. In the event you successfully complete the MSc but do not transfer to the research stage, your MSc will be awarded at the end of year 1.

Research content

Progression to your research stage in year 2 will be subject to successful completion of the MSc (with a minimum overall programme average of 50%, including 50% in the dissertation), and acceptance by a lead supervisor for the research project. Your thesis proposal and interdisciplinary supervisory team will be decided by the end of the first year. In years 2 through 4 you will conduct your PhD thesis research.

Although the registration period for an integrated PhD programme at the University of Bath is 5 years it is expected that you will submit your PhD thesis within 4 years of commencing your studies.

Professional Development

Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.

Read more about professional development support

Assessment

Assessment methods

  • Coursework
  • Data analysis practical
  • Dissertation (MSc route only)
  • End point assessment
  • Essay
  • Multiple choice examination
  • Online assessment
  • Practical work
  • Presentations
  • Seminar
  • Thesis
  • Viva Voce

Assessment description

Most research students who ‘do a PhD’ register in the first instance as probationer for the programme of PhD. Confirmation of PhD registration is subject to your passing an assessment process, which normally involves submission of written work and an oral examination.

Candidates are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis.

The final stage of the PhD programme is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

At least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent.

English Language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
  • The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
  • TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course.

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

References

Two references are required. At least one of these should be an academic reference from the most recent place of study.

Fees and funding

Fees and funding information for Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) Integrated PhD

Fees

Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home or Overseas student.

Learn how we decide fee status

Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students. If you aren't paying your fees in British pounds, you should also budget for possible fluctuations in your own currency.

Find out more about student fees

Extra costs

A training support fee of £1,000 per annum is required in addition to the tuition fees - this applies from the second year of the programme onwards (this fee does not apply to your first year).

How to pay

Funding options

Find funding for doctoral research

Payment options

You can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer.

Paying your tuition fees

Application information

  • Programme title
    Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) Integrated PhD
  • Final awards
    MSc and PhD
  • Mode of study
    Full-time
  • Course code
    RSBB-AFM48
  • Department
  • Location
    University of Bath
    Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY
  • Application deadline

    3 months prior to the intended start date (for international applicants) or 2 months prior to the intended start date (for home applicants). For example, for an end of September start, the deadline is 30 June (international) and 31 July (home).

  • Regulator

Applicant profile

See our guide about how to apply for doctoral study

Selection process

All applicants need to take part in an interview and decision making process before being accepted onto this programme.

Immigration requirements

This PhD is covered by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If you are an international student, you may require an ATAS certificate to join this course and you can find out more about the visa requirements for studying in the UK.

For additional support please contact the Student Immigration Service for matters related to student visas and immigration.

Programme enquiries

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