In the CDT in Chemical Biology: Innovations for the Life Sciences, students apply for specific research projects rather than for generic positions within the CDT. Competition for ICB CDT studentships is high, ensuring that only the best applicants are awarded a place on the course.
The EPSRC CDT studentship awards 4 years of a fully-funded stipend. This covers a one-year Masters of Research (MRes) in Chemical Biology & Bioentrepreneurship, followed by a three-year PhD.
Potential students are interviewed by the supervisors and the CDT Directors.
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Studentship structure
The MRes course involves taught elements from October to January in: basic Chemical Biology, Data Science and Measurement Science, Hackspace education - giving students experience of rapid prototyping (additive manufacturing, electronics, robotics, laser cutting, microfluidics, microcontrollers), software engineering/modelling (Python/Machine Learning, Matlab, Fusion 360, biological “toy models”) and biohacking (protein engineering, proteomics, metabolomic assays) and a Micro-MBA.
This is followed by a research project that runs from January to September. The research project continues in the PhD. During the PhD students benefit from additional transferable skills training including Science Communication with the BBC, a Human Experience Course, International Science Policy and the choice between the EVOLVE (workplace-based learning programme) and DISRUPT (tech accelerator programme).
The studentship will cover tuition fees and stipend for a total of 4 years. In addition, there is a consumable allowance of £3,500 per annum and a total of £1,500 towards travel and £2,000 for the EVOLVE programme per studentship.
MRes and PhD
One-year MRes
Students will join the first year for a multidisciplinary MRes in Chemical Biology & Bioentrepreneurship, where exciting professional and transferable skills courses are crafted and delivered in partnership with industry, and fused with world class research, hacking and entrepreneurship training.
This includes an 8-month multidisciplinary research project, taught courses, training in Imperial College’s Advanced Hackspace, industry-led innovation workshops, a Business Catalyst programme and much more.
PhD training
Building on the research project from the MRes, students will then embark on a three year PhD. During this phase of the programme students continue to benefit from additional bespoke transferable skills training courses in Science Communication, Human Centred Design, and Responsible Research and Innovation alongside outreach activities, industry led hackathons and student-tailored career boosting placements.
In addition, through the DISRUPT programme students will have the opportunity to create their own start-ups. Over the years many of our students have filed their own patents and created their own successful spin-out companies, e.g. FA Bio, Fresh Check, anywhereHPLC.
Find out more about our students and their projects
Date of last review: 18 January 2024
Date of last update: 18 January 2024
