Functionalised silicone elastomers for controlled release drug delivery
School of Pharmacy | PHD
Funding
Funded
Reference Number
CAST/2241/KM1
Application Deadline
31 March 2024
Start Date
1 October 2024
Overview
It is increasingly acknowledged that drug delivery is a key factor in developing new medicines, and that new polymeric biomaterials will play a critical role in driving innovation. In 1964, researchers first demonstrated that small molecules – including certain dyes and drugs – were able to diffuse slowly from silicone elastomer capsules implanted in animals. Silicone elastomers have since been exploited for a myriad of controlled release drug delivery applications, including intrauterine devices, vaginal rings, subdermal and other implants for contraception, estrogen replacement therapy, HIV prevention, and treatment of bladder cancer and eye diseases. However, to date, all marketed drug delivery products containing silicone elastomers are fabricated from a single silicone chemistry – referred to as polydimethylsiloxane – in which the silicone polymer is functionalised only with methyl groups. Surprisingly, although silicone elastomers having other functional groups are well-established in the medical device, electronics and aerospace industries, they have neither been extensively investigated nor exploited for use in drug delivery devices. In this project, for the first time, we will assess the potential for controlled drug release from chemically functionalised silicone elastomers. Specifically, working in partnership with NuSil – the global leader in the synthesis, formulation and supply of silicone excipients for medical and drug delivery applications – the aim of this project is to assess the potential for controlled release drug delivery from silicone polymers/elastomers containing methyl, phenyl, trifluoropropyl and custom hydrophilic groups.
It is increasingly acknowledged that drug delivery is a key factor in developing new medicines, and that new polymeric biomaterials will play a critical role in driving innovation. In 1964, researchers first demonstrated that small molecules – including certain dyes and drugs – were able to diffuse slowly from silicone elastomer capsules implanted in animals. Silicone elastomers have since been exploited for a myriad of controlled release drug delivery applications, including intrauterine devices, vaginal rings, subdermal and other implants for contraception, estrogen replacement therapy, HIV prevention, and treatment of bladder cancer and eye diseases. However, to date, all marketed drug delivery products containing silicone elastomers are fabricated from a single silicone chemistry – referred to as polydimethylsiloxane – in which the silicone polymer is functionalised only with methyl groups. Surprisingly, although silicone elastomers having other functional groups are well-established in the medical device, electronics and aerospace industries, they have neither been extensively investigated nor exploited for use in drug delivery devices. In this project, for the first time, we will assess the potential for controlled drug release from chemically functionalised silicone elastomers. Specifically, working in partnership with NuSil – the global leader in the synthesis, formulation and supply of silicone excipients for medical and drug delivery applications – the aim of this project is to assess the potential for controlled release drug delivery from silicone polymers/elastomers containing methyl, phenyl, trifluoropropyl and custom hydrophilic groups.
The objectives of the project are:
1. To measure the solubility characteristics of model drugs (dapivirine, metronidazole and gemcitabine) in silicone polymers containing various methyl, phenyl, trifluoropropyl and custom hydrophilic moieties
2. To assess the isothermal cure characteristics of the various silicone elastomer materials, both without and with inclusion of model drugs
3. To test release of model drugs from the various silicone elastomers, and mathematically model the data to obtain drug diffusion coefficients, drug permeation coefficients, release rates, lag/burst times, etc.
4. To assess the extent of swelling in aqueous media of devices manufactured from the various silicone elastomers
5. To assess the mechanical properties of devices fabricated from the various silicone elastomers
6. To assess the potential for combining the multiple silicone elastomer types within reservoir-type devices for further modulation/control of drug release rates
7. To provide the student with a 3-month immersive industrial research experience at NuSil’s R&D facility in California around the synthesis and formulation of a custom hydrophilic silicone elastomer
CAST (PhD) STUDENTSHIPS (Co-operative Awards in Science and Technology)
provide for the payments of approved fees and the maintenance of students on Research Studentships intended to encourage the development of collaboration between universities and industry and, in particular, to provide an opportunity for graduates to undertake PhD research of direct interest to industry.
How the project aligns with Prof. Malcolm’s research
I am a world-leading academic researcher with extensive practical and commercial knowledge/expertise in developing controlled release drug delivery products, most notably for use in women’s sexual and reproductive health. For example, the antiretroviral-releasing silicone elastomer vaginal ring product I conceived and helped develop over the past twenty years is now being used by women across Africa for prevention of sexually-acquired HIV infection. In fact, most of the 100+ research articles I have published over the past 25 years have focused on silicone elastomer materials. This project affords a unique opportunity for partnership between a world-leading academic and the world-leading silicone company to advance new innovations in the drug delivery field.
How the project aligns with Queen's University Belfast priorities
The project aligns strongly with QUB’s Strategy 2030 research ambitions, including: (i) contribute meaningfully to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’, and specifically Targets 3.3 and 3.7 relating to HIV prevention and women’s sexual and reproductive health, (ii) expand reach through strategic global co-operation and collaboration, (iii) build research partnerships internationally, and (iv) enhance QUB’s reputation as a global research-intensive university delivering innovation and impact.
The project will provide extensive training and skills development for the student in the following topics:
· drug formulation
· injection molding
· drug quantification using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
· in vitro drug release testing
· use of thermal analysis methods, e.g., DSC, TGA
· rheological and mechanical testing methods
· planning and organising skills: designing and planning of experiments
· numeracy and statistical skills
· teamwork skills: working confidently as part of a large research team
The student will receive additional support from senior researchers working in the Malcolm/Boyd research group.
NuSil is committed to providing an immersive industrial research experience for the student engaged in the proposed project, including a three-month on-site residency at the NuSil R&D facility in Carpinteria, California, US. The student will be embedded in the NuSil Biomaterials New Product Development group, working side-by-side with R&D scientists and technicians in our laboratory and piloting facilities to execute on experimental designs. Prior to engaging in hands-on work, the student will complete the same Safety, Quality, Security, HR, Product and Equipment training required for all new NuSil employees. During the residency, the student will develop familiarity with the equipment and processes used to develop, manufacture, and characterize silicone elastomers, gaining first-hand experience in what it takes to drive a product from concept to commercialization.
The project is well positioned to impact next-generation drug delivery devices offering controlled release of drugs over months/years. The successful applicant will have opportunities to present their research at national and international conferences. The work will be of interest to pharmaceutical companies and silicone elastomer suppliers.
Funding Information
Terms and conditions for CAST awards are provided at the link below:
https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/economy/Postgraduate-Studentships-Terms-Conditions-2023-24.pdf
The candidate must be ordinarily resident in the UK or Islands, including the Channel
Islands and Isle of Man, for the full three year period before the first day of the first
academic year of the course, i.e. normally 1 October (or would have been so resident
had the candidate, the spouse or either parent not been employed temporarily
outside the UK or the EU).
For Non-EU nationals – the main purpose of residence in the UK must NOT have
been to receive full time education during any part of that three-year period.
Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme,
who also satisfy a three-year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of
the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering
fees and maintenance.
Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
MAY qualify for a “Fees only” Studentship if the candidate doesn’t have three full
years’ residency in the UK and Islands but has been ordinarily resident in the area
comprising the UK, Gibraltar, EEA and Switzerland for three years before the start
of the course.
ROI nationals MAY receive a studentship covering fees only if the candidate
doesn’t have three full years’ residency in the UK and Islands but has been
ordinarily resident in the area comprising the UK, Gibraltar, EEA and Switzerland
for three years before the start of the course.
Project Summary
Supervisor
Professor Karl Malcolm (CAST)
Prof. Karl Malcolm (Queen's University Belfast); Dr. Peter Boyd (Queen's University Belfast); John Zupancich (NuSil Technology LLC)
Funding Body
Department of the Economy (DfE) CAST award
Pharmacy overview
The School of Pharmacy (SoP) focuses its research activities on key areas of the pharmaceutical sciences, clinical and primary care aspects of pharmacy. Our research spans a wide range of scientific and professional disciplines. Multidisciplinary sits at the core of many of our internationally-connected research programmes, ultimately delivering impactful research designed to benefit patients.
The School of Pharmacy is committed to research excellence. This is achieved through ambitious target setting, a key feature of our School Strategy, feeding into the broader University Strategy 2030. We will continually strive for research excellence, strategic recruitment and encourage/enable impactful internal and external collaborations. The SoP has as a broad portfolio of high quality research income and staff within the School publish widely in leading journals and present their work at national and international conferences.
Our research focuses on making real-world improvements for patients through our expertise in pharmaceutical science and practice. Research programmes are grouped into five key themes, which are mainly funded by UK/European Government sources, leading medical charities and importantly the pharmaceutical industry.
1. NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTHERAPEUTICS
This area focus on the development of novel technologies and targeted therapies for advanced healthcare solutions including anticancer therapeutics, nanoparticles and nano-delivery of macromolecules; proteases in disease and natural peptides.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/ResearchThemes/NanomedicineandBi
2. PHARMACEUTICAL MATERIALS SCIENCE AND FORMULATION
This activity centres on the design, development and industrial translation of novel systems for patient-focused administration of difficult-to-deliver drugs including; HIV prevention and multipurpose prevention technologies; solid dosage forms and microneedles.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/ResearchThemes/PharmaceuticalMate
3. DRUG DELIVERY AND BIOMATERIALS
The area investigates the development of materials which interface with the body, providing enhanced functionality. Applications include improved drug delivery, infection resistance or monitoring of levels of drug or host markers. The three main areas are: photoactive biomaterials, polymeric medical devices and sensor development.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/ResearchThemes/DrugDeliveryandBio
4. INFECTION AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
This research theme consists of both basic and clinical research to improve the prevention, detection and treatment of infection, in particular for respiratory infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship and novel antimicrobials and anti-infective biomaterials
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/ResearchThemes/InfectionandAntimicr
5. HEALTHCARE DELIVERY AND MEDICINES OPTIMISATION
Reaearch within heath care delivery and medicines optimisation encompasses the development and implementation of interventions that improve the health outcomes for patients in primary and secondary care. This includes systems of healthcare delivery; quality of care in vulnerable populations and clinical paediatrics
https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/ResearchThemes/HealthcareDeliveryandMedicinesOptimisation/
Pharmacy Highlights
World Class Facilities
- The Graduate School is a dedicated, University wide facility designed to connect postgraduate students from across all disciplines. It is located on the main site, within the recently renovated Lynn Library. The Graduate School provides an array of valuable training opportunities, tailor built to meet the needs of our postgraduate community. Importantly, courses are designed to provide support for core generic skills and for subject specific topics. Additionally, areas with the Graduate School can be reserved by postgraduate providing an idyllic retreat for those times which require intense focus.
More information about the Graduate School, can be found below:
https://www.qub.ac.uk/graduate-school/
Internationally Renowned Experts
- These unique research programmes are delivered by numerous leading international academic experts in specialist fields including drug delivery, medical devices and nanotechnology. Details of specific staff, with links to their areas of research expertise can be located below:
https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/
Student Experience
- 89% of current PhD students with the School of Pharmacy agree that the supervisory support and feedback equips them with the knowledge and experience to complete their research degree (PRES 2021).
Key Facts
Course content
Research Information
Associated Research
School of Pharmacy works closely with both local and global pharmaceutical companies. This ensures a successful pipeline for the development of novel emerging healthcare technologies, designed specifically to deliver patient benefit.
Research Themes
NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTHERAPEUTICS
Research in this theme is focused on the development of novel technologies and targeted therapies for advanced healthcare solutions. Activities are concentrated on the development of unique genetic therapies and delivery systems that can be applied for the detection and treatment of various disease condition, design and commercial translation of novel nanomedicines with a focus on cancer treatment, the detection, characterisation and inhibition of proteases implicated in chronic diseases, the isolation and characterisation of bioactive peptides for potential therapeutic use and computational biology for drug design and molecular modelling.
Research Themes
PHARMACEUTICAL MATERIALS SCIENCE AND FORMULATION
Research in this theme is focused on the design, development and industrial translation of novel systems for patient-focused administration of difficult-to-deliver drugs. Activities are concentrated on the development of formulations to address major global issues around sexual and reproductive health, use of hot melt granulation and polymer extrusion/injection moulding technologies to produce solid dosage forms, multi-layered and targeted drug delivery systems, the use microneedles for transdermal drug delivery, patient monitoring and vaccine delivery, implantable delivery systems and ocular therapeutics.
Research Themes
DRUG DELIVERY AND BIOMATERIALS
Research in this theme is focused on the development of materials which interface with the body and provide enhanced functionality, such as drug delivery, infection resistance or monitoring of levels of drug or host markers. Activities are concentrated on the development of new methods for fabricating materials for medical device manufacture including biomaterials with enhanced anti-infective and biocompatibility properties. Sensor research focuses on sensors immobilised in biocompatible scaffolds, blood-free diagnosis/patient monitoring using microneedles and developing point-of-care tests for microbial infection.
Research Themes
INFECTION AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
Research in this theme is focused on improved prevention, detection and treatment of infection. Activities are concentrated on preventing the development of antimicrobial resistance through improved antimicrobial stewardship, improved detection of infection using molecular and sensor based technology, prevention of infection using novel anti-infective biomaterials and enhanced infection prevention and control strategies and improved treatment of infection through discovery of novel antibiotics and antibiotic adjuvants and markers for better evidence-based decisions on antibiotic selection.
Research Themes
HEALTHCARE DELIVERY AND MEDICINES OPTIMISATION
Research in this theme is focused on the development and implementation of interventions that improve the health outcomes of patients in primary and secondary care. Activities are concentrated on improving systems of patient care in all health care sectors with a focus on the appropriateness of prescribing in chronic disease and in care home residents with dementia, and medication adherence in children.
Research Themes
The School of Pharmacy at Queen’s is widely acknowledged as a leading centre for Pharmacy teaching and research in the UK. We are currently ranked 2nd School of Pharmacy in the UK for Pharmacy and Pharmacology Research
(The Complete University Guide 2022)
PhD opportunities are available in:
•Nanomedicine and biotherapeutics
•Pharmaceutical materials science and formulation
•Drug delivery and biomaterials
•Infection and antimicrobial resistance
•Healthcare delivery and medicines optimisation
Research Success
The research profile produced by the 2021 UK Research Excellence Framework (REF) showed that 97% of the research outputs with our combined Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy submission fell within the highest quality 4* and 3* categories, with 51% classed as world-leading 4* research, confirming our reputation as an internationally-leading research centre. Excellence across the School of Pharmacy is evidenced by our consistent ranking as one of the top pharmacy schools within the UK. We are very proud that in 2022 our School was ranked by the QS World Rankings in the top 15% (55th) globally for Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
Research Themes
Our research focuses on making real-world improvements for patients through our expertise in pharmaceutical science and practice. REF 2021 showed that 97% of the School’s submitted research fell within the highest quality 4* and 3* categories, with 43% classed as world- leading 4* research.
The School of Pharmacy has a long-standing track record in undertaking research which has had impact on healthcare and wellbeing for the population. Our work has led to the development of a local anaesthetic cream formulation, the creation of several spin-out companies (e.g. ProAxsis, pHion Therapeutics, Re-Vana Therapeutics), devices to help prevent the spread of HIV and a new type of pharmacy-led service which improves the prescribing of medication for older people. We constantly strive to do research which will positively impact society and improve the delivery of health care. One example of our high impact research includes the BREATH project led by Professor Lorraine Martin (https://www.breath-copd.org).
Research Projects
Materials & Advanced Technologies for Healthcare (MATCH) is an interdisciplinary research initiative comprising leading researchers from the Schools of Pharmacy, Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Biological Sciences, Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences and Nursing & Midwifery.
Our research is based on one key question: “How can we use advanced technologies to significantly improve healthcare outcomes?” We connect researchers along the development pathway and follow a unique “Molecule to Patient” approach. Currently, single-stranded strategies are applied to development and use of new healthcare products. Without a holistic approach, medicines are wasted, patients suffer avoidable adverse effects, or go untreated. Greater interaction between those involved in identifying novel therapeutic targets, drug discovery, materials science, pharmaceutical formulation, manufacture, diagnosis, prescribing and medicines utilisation is a significant unmet need. If addressed, this stands to have major impact in the care of all patients, but especially the very young and old, representing the populations in which medicines may present the greatest risk, but have maximum benefit. We take an innovative dual approach, firstly by developing the underpinning technologies, secondly by exploiting the possibilities that these technologies present to maximum clinical and commercial advantage by selecting the best target areas and understanding patient factors.
Career Prospects
Introduction
Many of our PhD graduates have moved into academic and research roles in Higher Education while others go on to play leading roles within the pharmaceutical industry. Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits from facilities within the School, but also from wider University initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus, both of which bolster candidate employability.
Employment after the Course
Queen’s University offer extensive career development opportunities to PhD students. Further details can be accessed via the link below.
https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/
People teaching you
Professor Brendan Gilmore
PGR Director
Pharmacy
Applications considered throughout the year from applicants who have secured external funding or are willing to self-fund the project.
Learning Outcomes
A research degree offers students an opportunity to develop their capacity for independent research and critical thought. A PhD allows students to explore in-depth an area of interest, developing skills to solve theoretical and practical problems within the field. Undertaking a research degree will enhance a student’s written and oral communication skills, providing the essential skills required for academic and industry leadership positions.Course structure
There is no specific course content as such. You are expected to undertake 30 days of formal training which includes demonstrator training, laboratory techniques, annual progress review preparation etc. All students are closely supported by the School and supervisors to obtain quantitative and qualitative data using a range of research methods. You will be expected to carry out your own research under the guidance of your supervisor and postdoctoral team.Over the course of study you can attend postgraduate skills training organised by the Graduate School.
You will normally register, in the first instance, as an ‘undifferentiated PhD student’ which means that you have satisfied staff that you are capable of undertaking a research degree. The decision as to whether you should undertake an MPhil or a PhD is delayed until you have completed ‘differentiation’.
Differentiation takes place about 9-12 months after registration for full time students and about 18-30 months for part time students: You are normally asked to submit work to a panel of up two academics and this is followed up with a formal meeting with the ‘Differentiation Panel’. The Panel then make a decision regarding your progress and the viability of your research project. Annual progress reviews, with the same panel will occur both during 2nd and 3rd year.
To complete a doctoral qualification you will be required to submit a thesis and to attend a viva voce [oral examination] with an external and internal examiner to defend your research.
A PhD programme runs for 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time. Students can apply for a writing up year should it be required.
The PhD is open to both full and part time candidates and is often a useful preparation for a career within academia or industry.
Full time students are often attracted to research degree programmes because they offer an opportunity to pursue in some depth an area of academic interest.
If you meet the Entry Requirements, the next step is to check whether we can supervise research in your chosen area. We only take students to whom we can offer expert research supervision from one of our academic staff. Therefore, your research interests should align with those of our academic staff. Full details can be found via the website.
https://www.qub.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-research/find-a-phd-supervisor/
Application Process
If you identify a potential PhD supervisor, select the “Make a PhD enquiry” tab, and complete the required fields. Your potential supervisor or the admissions team will aim to respond within a working week.
Following initial discussions, and assuming you meet the eligibility criteria, potential students will need to make a formal application for PhD study via the link below. This application will require a brief outline of the proposed research project. This can be agreed with your potential supervisor during initial discussions.
https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php
If you have difficulty identifying or contacting an appropriate supervisor, please contact Dr Heather Barry (h.barry@qub.ac.uk) or Adam Ringland (a.ringland@qub.ac.uk) who will be happy to help.
Application from full-time self-funding students will be accepted at any point throughout the academic year.
Assessment
Students will be expected to present drafts of their work at regular intervals to their supervisor who will provide written and oral feedback; a formal assessment process takes place annually, termed the Annual Progress Review (APR).
APR requires students to present their work in both the written and oral format to a panel of academics from within the School. Successful completion of this process will allow students to register for the next academic year.
Students will be expected to present drafts of their work at regular intervals to their supervisor who will provide written and oral feedback; a formal assessment process takes place annually, termed the Annual Progress Review (APR).
APR requires students to present their work in both the written and oral format to a panel of academics from within the School. Successful completion of this process will allow students to register for the next academic year.
The final assessment of the doctoral degree is both written and oral. Students will submit their thesis to an internal and external examining team who will review the written thesis before inviting the student to orally defend their work at a Viva Voce.
Feedback
Supervisors will offer feedback on draft work at regular intervals throughout the period of registration on the degree.
Facilities
Full time PhD students will have access to a shared office space and access to a desk with personal computer and internet access.
Entrance requirements
Graduate
The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
International Students
For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 6.0 in writing, and not less than 5.5 in listening, speaking and reading, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
Tuition Fees
| Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | TBC |
| Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | TBC |
| England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | TBC |
| EU Other 3 | £25,600 |
| International | £25,600 |
1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled or pre-settled status, are expected to be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident, however this is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly Student Fees Regulations. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB are expected to be charged the GB fee, however this is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly student fees Regulations.
2 It is expected that EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI will be eligible for NI tuition fees. The tuition fee set out above is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly student fees Regulations.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted are for the academic year 2021-22, and relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
More information on postgraduate tuition fees.
Pharmacy costs
Additional course costs
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may also be other extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies . Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £100 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, and library fines. In undertaking a research project students may incur costs associated with transport and/or materials, and there will also be additional costs for printing and binding the thesis. There may also be individually tailored research project expenses and students should consult directly with the School for further information.
Bench fees
Some research programmes incur an additional annual charge on top of the tuition fees, often referred to as a bench fee. Bench fees are charged when a programme (or a specific project) incurs extra costs such as those involved with specialist laboratory or field work. If you are required to pay bench fees they will be detailed on your offer letter. If you have any questions about Bench Fees these should be raised with your School at the application stage. Please note that, if you are being funded you will need to ensure your sponsor is aware of and has agreed to fund these additional costs before accepting your place.
How do I fund my study?
1.PhD OpportunitiesFind PhD opportunities and funded studentships by subject area.
2.Funded Doctoral Training ProgrammesWe offer numerous opportunities for funded doctoral study in a world-class research environment. Our centres and partnerships, aim to seek out and nurture outstanding postgraduate research students, and provide targeted training and skills development.
3.PhD loansThe Government offers doctoral loans of up to £26,445 for PhDs and equivalent postgraduate research programmes for English- or Welsh-resident UK and EU students.
4.International ScholarshipsInformation on Postgraduate Research scholarships for international students.
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How to Apply
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
Find a supervisor
If you're interested in a particular project, we suggest you contact the relevant academic before you apply, to introduce yourself and ask questions.
To find a potential supervisor aligned with your area of interest, or if you are unsure of who to contact, look through the staff profiles linked here.
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