Each year the MRL accepts basic scientists and clinical trainees for traditional 3-year PhD projects and for a 1-year MPhil by research, supported by Research Council studentships or charitable funders, personal awards and by scholarships administered by the Cambridge Trusts.

PhD opportunities

Alongside the Wellcome Trust 4-year PhD programme, the MRL offers opportunities for a standard 3-year PhD. The majority of students choosing this path will already have acquired some research experience, for example by completing an extended undergraduate course or a Masters degree.

MPhil study

We also accept a few students for a 1-year MPhil by research. When funding for specific projects is available, it will be advertised below. We also support applications for personal funding for suitably qualified individuals.

General enquiries

Enquiries are welcome at any time, but most applications are considered during the period November to February for projects to commence the following October. Before making a formal application to the University, intending applicants should contact individual investigators (research interests and contact details here), to discuss potential projects and garner support for funding applications.

How to apply

There is no specific form for preliminary applications to the Institute. If you would like to study for a 3-year PhD at the Metabolic Research Laboratories, please contact PIs whos work interests you to elicit support for your application before applying formally to the University using the GRADSAF. Applications not supported by an MRL PI will not be considered. The University application fee allows you to apply to up to three different programmes/courses. As long as they each have the same starting date, the fee is automatically waived in your 2nd and 3rd applications.