International PhD Academy: Medical Research
Our medical PhD programme
This 4-year PhD programme is tailored to train and equip you with the necessary knowledge and research skills to embark on your PhD project.
Whether you have limited research experience, are updating your skills, or changing your research area, this programme offers a supportive and structured pathway into advanced biomedical science.
At the Leeds Institute of Medical Research (LIMR) at St. James's, our vision is to impact on biomedical and clinical research - locally, nationally and globally - with a strong emphasis on health outcomes. We bring together scientists and clinicians to collaboratively on cutting edge biomedical research and translate discoveries into real-world benefits for patients. We train the next generation of scientists through state-of-the-art, research-led teaching.
Programme Overview
Year 1: Foundation Year
A tailored combination of taught modules and hands-on research projects:
- Core Modules
- Methods in Biomedical Research
- Paper Criticism in Medicine
- Complementary Modules
Selected based on your individual development needs. - Mini Research Projects
Two 12-week placements in different labs to build practical skills aligned with your future PhD project.
Your personalised training plan is developed in consultation with your supervisory team and programme manager during the first month.
Years 2–4: PhD Research
- Years 2 & 3: Full-time research on your chosen PhD project with ongoing support.
- Year 4: Final research phase and thesis writing.
Available projects
A range of projects are available in the following research areas:
- Cancer biology
- Diagnostics and Pathology
- Gastroenterology
- Genetics
- Haematology
- Immunology
- Molecular Medicine
- Oncology
- Translational medicine
What our programme offers
- a rich multi-disciplinary environment giving you the opportunity to develop a wealth of new skills and knowledge
- diverse training and experience from year 1 ensuring a solid foundation for your main 3-year project
- high impact research projects to ensure our students have a wealth of career opportunities open to them
- bespoke academic, personal and professional development of students
Applications with government scholarships or other sources are welcome at any time through the Academy has one intake per year in mid-September with 5 places available for the 4-year programme. Self-funded applicants must be able to provide overseas rate University Tuition Fees plus laboratory consumable costs for years 2-4. This is in addition to the provision of personal living expenses.
Funding and fees
We welcome:
- Applicants with government or institutional scholarships
- Self-funded students who can cover:
- Overseas University Tuition Fees
- Laboratory consumables
- Personal living costs
Please visit the School of Medicine Funding Guide for further information.
Hear from Our Students
Having left the academic and laboratory setting for some time, the International PhD Academy has helped equip me with the necessary skills for my PhD journey. I am thrilled to embark on my research into cancer and finding its cure.
Aqeelah Mohammed, PhD student from Malaysia
Eligibility
To be considered for a place in the International Academy, you must meet the eligibility criteria below:
- Self-funded PhD students only (e.g. personal funding, sponsorship from government or employer)
- Students will have or expect to gain, at least a 2:1 (Hons) degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject
- English language requirements: British Council IELTS - score of 7.0 overall, with no element less than 6.5
- Pre-sessional English courses available at the Language Centre
How to apply
Applications are accepted year round but the Academy has one intake per year in mid-September, with 5 places available for the 4-year programme.
To apply:
- Complete the online application form
- Submit:
- Full academic CV
- Degree transcripts and certificates (or marks so far if still studying)
- Clear indication you are applying for the PhD in Medicine, Health and Human Disease: International Academy programme and the project title.
- Arrange for two academic references to be sent directly to fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk
For Enquiries regarding the application process contact the Faculty of Medicine and Health Admissions Team.
Informal enquires regarding the bespoke taught first year of the PhD programme can be made by contacting LIMRPhD@leeds.ac.uk.
Links to useful sites
International students - Accommodation and student life in Leeds.
Welcome to Leeds – Support services and online tools for new students.
Faculty of Medicine and Health Graduate School –Join a dynamic research community.
Leeds Doctoral College – Enhance your PhD experience with tailored support.
Other PhD opportunities within the School of Medicine
International PhD Academy Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine
LIMR 3-year PhD
Direct entry for applicants with suitable research experience, or with a Masters degree featuring research modules in a relevant field, we offer a range of three-year PhD projects.
Develop as a scientist or scientifically-literate clinician by studying molecular approaches to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of a range of cancers, chronic, autoimmune and genetic diseases. Learn from internationally recognised researchers and clinicians, who will share the latest developments in their fields.
An immersive research-focused course, designed to prepare you for a successful career in medical research career. Gain hands-on experience and critical understanding of key concepts and issues relevant to medical research.