Overview

Research in our School of Life Sciences covers a wide spectrum of biology from genes to ecosystems, and this broad-based structure.

Features of Biological Sciences at University of Essex

Our School provides a comprehensive range of facilities for modern, multi-disciplinary, biological research which include:

a next-generation genome sequencing facility
a high-performance computing cluster with 368 CPUs, 5.4 Tb of RAM and 700 Tb of storage for analyses of large biological data sets
an advanced bioimaging suite to visualise and process images of biological processes in real time
an X-ray Crystallography and Macromolecular Interactions facility for the biophysical characterisation of proteins and other macromolecules
aquaria, mesocosms and other facilities for ecology and behaviour studies

Programme Structure

Structure:

A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, giving you the chance to investigate your chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding. In communicating that understanding, through a thesis or other means, you have a rare opportunity to generate knowledge.
A research degree allows you to develop new high-level skills, enhance your professional development and build new networks. It can open doors to many careers.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months
Part-time
- 72 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-08 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2027-01-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-24 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-04-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-09 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-03-09 00:00:00 , National

More details

We recommend that you apply as soon as you are able to as courses may occasionally close early.

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Colchester, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Biology Natural Sciences Biochemistry View 124 other PhDs in Biology in United Kingdom

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You will need a good honours degree or a Masters degree, or equivalent, in a related subject. A well-developed research proposal is also essential.
You will normally be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23625 GBP / year

≈ 23625 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5006 GBP / year

≈ 5006 GBP / year

Additional Details

Part-time:

Home/UK fee: £2,503 per year
International fee: £11,813 per year

Living costs

Colchester

United Kingdom

660 - 1140 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.