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The PhD in Zoology at the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, United Kingdom, is a fully funded doctoral research programme designed for students seeking advanced study in animal biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, conservation science, and related life sciences. Offered through the Department of Zoology, the programme provides a dynamic academic environment with approximately 80 postgraduate researchers and strong interdisciplinary collaboration.
Programme Overview
This PhD programme requires a minimum of three years of full-time research under the supervision of an expert academic. Students are embedded within a research group while also benefiting from a broader postgraduate community, structured training opportunities, and academic support systems. The degree culminates in the submission of a doctoral thesis of up to 60,000 words, followed by a viva voce examination conducted by independent experts.
Most candidates begin their studies in October to align with university induction programmes, although January and April entry options may also be available. Part-time study is considered on a case-by-case basis and must be discussed with a proposed supervisor before applying.
Supervision and Research Training
Each PhD candidate is supervised by at least one academic specialist in their field and supported by two additional academic advisors. Students typically meet their supervisor every one to two weeks, particularly during the early research design and thesis writing stages.
Doctoral researchers develop independent and original research projects, conduct in-depth literature reviews, formulate scientific questions, and present findings at academic conferences and in peer-reviewed journals. The programme also encourages PhD students to gain undergraduate teaching experience as practical demonstrators or small-group supervisors.
All students are members of the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences, which offers professional development courses, transferable skills training, and research ethics seminars. Additional academic activities include departmental seminars, statistics training for zoologists, postgraduate symposiums, and peer-led research presentations.
Assessment and Progress Monitoring
At the end of the first year, students must pass a formal progress assessment based on a detailed report and viva examination. In the second and third years, students submit annual progress reports to ensure timely completion of their doctoral research.
The final assessment involves submitting a doctoral thesis within 48 months of initial registration (for full-time students), followed by an oral viva examination.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the PhD in Zoology at Cambridge are expected to make a significant and original contribution to scientific knowledge. By the end of the programme, students will have demonstrated:
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Creation and interpretation of new knowledge in zoological sciences
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Research of publishable quality
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Advanced expertise in scientific methodologies and analytical techniques
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Independent problem-solving and autonomous research planning
Entry Requirements
Applicants should hold a UK Good 2:1 Honours degree or an international equivalent. A master’s degree or relevant research experience is advantageous.
International applicants must meet English language requirements such as:
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IELTS Academic overall score of 7.0
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TOEFL iBT total score of 100
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Equivalent Cambridge English qualifications (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with required grades)
Applicants who require a UK student visa must obtain an ATAS certificate after receiving an offer of admission.
Funding Opportunities and Fees
The PhD in Zoology offers limited departmental studentships each year, alongside supervisor-linked funding and research council support from organisations such as NERC and BBSRC. Competitive scholarships, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, may also be available.
For Home students, the estimated annual costs include:
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University Composition Fee: £10,878
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Maintenance: £19,860
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Total estimated annual commitment: £30,738
Part-time fees are calculated as a percentage of the full-time fee over an extended duration.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal. Before applying, candidates must identify and secure the support of a prospective supervisor within the Department of Zoology.
A complete application requires:
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Two academic or professional referees
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Academic transcripts
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CV or resume
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Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)
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Proposed supervisor confirmation
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Research title, summary, and detailed research proposal
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Statement of interest
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants can typically expect a decision within eight weeks of submitting a complete application.
How to Find a Supervisor
Prospective applicants must contact potential supervisors in advance to discuss research interests and confirm availability within their research group. Candidates may apply for advertised research projects or propose an original research idea aligned with the department’s expertise.
The PhD in Zoology at the University of Cambridge provides world-class research facilities, expert supervision, professional training, and global academic recognition, making it one of the leading fully funded doctoral programmes in life sciences and zoological research in the United Kingdom.
Apply now at : PhD in Zoology | Postgraduate Study
