BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

Newcastle University, Liverpool University and Durham University

The universities of Newcastle, Liverpool and Durham have established a Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP). This partnership will deliver world-class postgraduate research and training in biosciences, offering students a wealth of opportunities to work with leading researchers across a wide range of biosciences and to benefit from high-quality training and state-of-the-art resources at the three universities.

Studentship Opportunities

30 DTP studentships will commence in September of the next three academic years, starting 2012-13.

Students will normally follow integrated MRes/PhD research training over 4 years and will register for PhD studies at the partner where the PhD would be awarded (see section on How to Apply). First year MRes studies would commence at either Newcastle or Liverpool, with MRes project work available at all three partners.

Cohort Training

All students will be offered a 3-month Professional Internships for PhD Students (PIP) experience in, for example, business, public services or the third sector, as part of their training package. The aim of the PIP is to provide an opportunity for students to understand how skills gained during PhD study can be utilised in other sectors and also to learn additional skill-sets.

Throughout the course of the studentship students will also receive training in the skills required to develop a successful research career. This will include training in generic skills such as presentation skills, the ability to analyse, think critically, evaluate and synthesise information, time management, and career progression.

Furthermore, partnership activities will ensure that students are able to benefit from the wider scientific communities and facilities available through any and all of the partners, for example workshops focused on specific biological areas and techniques will provide focused training.

Entry Requirements

The Partnership seeks to recruit candidates with an outstanding academic pedigree and research potential. Students must hold a First or good 2:1 undergraduate degree in biosciences or related sciences (the MRes year can work as a conversion year for those with a mathematical, engineering or similar background).

Financial Support

DTP studentships are usually for four years and include the following annual package of financial support over the duration of the studentships:

  • A tax-free maintenance grant set at the UK Research Council's national postgraduate rate, which is currently £13,590.
  • Full payment of tuition fees at the Home/EU rate; and
  • A research training support grant (RTSG) of to support the student’s research studies (managed through the host institution).

Residency

Home students receive a full studentship; EU students who have not been resident in the UK for the last three years before the start of their studentship are only eligible for a fees-only award.

How To Apply

Training opportunities will focus on BBSRC strategic priorities. A list of specific DTP projects available for research studies from September 2013, along with details on how to apply, will be provided on the individual university websites below:

Applicants must complete the online postgraduate application form for the university in which their project choice is available.

Contact Us

For application queries please contact:-