The University of Cambridge has opened applications for its 2027 Cambridge Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (DTP), offering fully funded PhD opportunities in biological sciences. Prospective PhD students interested in bioscience research can apply for approximately 25 studentships, with funding covering tuition fees and a living stipend.
The application deadline is 8 December 2026, making early preparation essential for candidates seeking a fully funded PhD in the United Kingdom.
Cambridge Biosciences PhD 2027: Key Details
- University: University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Programme: Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD Programme
- Entry year: 2027
- Application status: Open
- Application deadline: 8 December 2026
- Available studentships: Approximately 25
- Funding: Tuition fees and stipend
- Annual stipend: £21,805 for the 2026–27 academic year
- Eligible applicants: UK and international students, subject to eligibility requirements
- Application method: Online application through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal
The Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD programme provides an opportunity for aspiring researchers to develop advanced scientific knowledge, gain practical research experience and contribute to developments in biological sciences.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at Cambridge University
The Cambridge Biosciences DTP is supported by the BBSRC Doctoral Landscape Awards. Successful applicants receive funding for their stipend and University tuition fees, helping them pursue doctoral research without having to cover these core costs independently.
For the 2027 intake, approximately 25 studentships are expected to be available. However, the number of places is limited, and applicants should prepare a strong application that demonstrates their research interests, academic preparation and suitability for their chosen project.
The annual stipend is currently listed at £21,805 for the 2026–27 academic year. Applicants should check the official programme website for any updates to funding arrangements applicable to the 2027 intake.
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Official programme information: Cambridge Biosciences DTP application page.
Two PhD Studentship Options Available
Applicants to the Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD programme can choose between Targeted studentships and iCASE studentships. Both options provide doctoral research opportunities, but their training structures differ.
1. Targeted Studentships
Targeted studentships allow applicants to select projects from an advertised list of available research opportunities.
Students complete two research rotations. The first takes place in the laboratory associated with their selected project, while the second takes place in another laboratory chosen for its relevance to the research area.
This structure enables students to broaden their scientific knowledge, explore complementary approaches and gain experience across research environments.
Targeted students also undertake a three-month professional internship with an organisation of their choice as part of their PhD journey.
Explore available opportunities here: Targeted PhD projects.
2. iCASE Studentships
The iCASE studentship option combines doctoral research at a University department with an internship at an industrial partner connected to the PhD project.
Applicants choose from the advertised iCASE projects, which include a minimum three-month internship with the industrial partner.
This pathway can help students understand how academic research connects with industry, develop professional experience and explore potential career opportunities beyond university-based research.
Candidates interested in collaborative research and industry experience can review the available projects before submitting an application.
Explore opportunities here: iCASE PhD projects.
Eligibility Requirements for Cambridge PhD Funding
Applicants should have achieved a High Upper Second-Class Honours degree (High II.i) or the equivalent required by the programme.
Candidates whose qualifications were awarded outside the United Kingdom should consult the University of Cambridge’s international qualifications guidance to determine whether their degree meets the entry requirements.
International applicants, including students from EU and non-EU countries, are eligible to apply, subject to the programme’s requirements and available funding.
The Cambridge Biosciences DTP can award international candidates up to 30% of the cohort’s studentships. For a cohort of approximately 25 students, this could mean up to seven awards for international applicants.
For eligible international students recruited to the programme, funding arrangements include tuition fees, a living stipend, and support for student visa costs and the immigration health surcharge.
Applicants should verify their individual eligibility before applying.
Check the requirements here: University of Cambridge postgraduate eligibility.
How to Apply for Cambridge Biosciences DTP 2027
The application process requires candidates to identify suitable projects, prepare their supporting information and submit a complete application before the deadline.
Step 1: Choose your preferred research projects.
Review the available Targeted and iCASE projects and identify research opportunities that match your academic background and interests.
Applicants may select up to two projects in the same application. These can include two Targeted projects, two iCASE projects, or one project from each category.
Step 2: Complete the online application.
Apply through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal. The course is listed as BBSRC DTP PhD in Biological Sciences.
Application portal: Apply through Cambridge University.
Step 3: Enter the correct project details.
Provide the project reference and project title exactly as shown in the relevant advertisement. Copying and pasting the project reference can help prevent errors.
Step 4: Write a strong statement of interest.
Explain why the selected research project interests you and demonstrate how your previous research experience, technical skills, coursework and academic background prepare you for doctoral study.
If you have discussed the project with a supervisor, you may include relevant information from that conversation. However, contacting a supervisor before applying is not compulsory.
Step 5: Prepare the required written responses.
Applicants must address topics including their motivation for a PhD, innovative thinking, problem-solving, independent working, knowledge of recent developments in their research area, understanding of research processes and relevant technical skills.
Step 6: Submit two references.
Applicants need two academic and/or professional references. You may submit your application before the references arrive, but the complete application, including both references and supporting documents, must meet the deadline.
Selection Process and Interview Timeline
Applications are assessed together after the December closing date through a two-stage selection process.
First, supervisors and departments or institutes review applications for their respective projects and shortlist candidates for an initial interview. Successful candidates are then invited to a second interview with the DTP Research Committee.
All interviews are conducted online.
Applicants should monitor the official Cambridge Biosciences DTP application timeline for further information about selection stages and expected dates.
Cambridge Biosciences PhD 2027: Application Deadline
The deadline for the Cambridge Biosciences DTP 2027 entry is Tuesday, 8 December 2026.
Prospective applicants should begin preparing early, carefully review project descriptions, confirm eligibility and arrange references well before the closing date.
With approximately 25 fully funded studentships available, the programme offers a valuable opportunity for UK and international graduates seeking advanced training in biological sciences.
For the most accurate information about available projects, funding, eligibility and application requirements, consult the official University of Cambridge programme website before submitting your application.
