Your first step to apply for a PhD at the MRC Epidemiology is to ensure that you meet all of the University of Cambridge entry requirements. Applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors to discuss their research topic.

University of Cambridge Applicant Portal

The online Applicant Portal is the common process for both formal entry to the University and for applying to a number of Cambridge funding schemes (e.g. Cambridge Trust, Gates Cambridge, the Arts & Humanities and Economic & Social Research Councils (AHRC and ESRC), and some other University awards).

Applications for PhD studies for admission are exempt from the University application fee.

You will need to know the following information when completing the Applicant Portal process:

Research Proposal / Covering Letter / CV

Please upload a full CV, two academic references, and a covering letter detailing: i) whether you are eligible for Home or Overseas university fees, ii) which funding sources you are applying to, and iii) an outline of your research interests and, if relevant, your proposed research topic.

Proposed research title: State the title of your proposed research project (this can be your own project or one from our list of PhD Topics) or broader topic of interest.

Research Summary: Describe in up to 1500 characters your proposed research project or topic and the type(s) of methodological approach you wish to undertake. If you are choosing a project from our list of PhD Topics you should rephrase (and expand on or adapt) the summary in your own words.

Please follow the instructions on the University Postgraduate Admissions website on how to send supporting documents for your application: Postgraduate Admissions supporting documentation guidelines

PhD in Epidemiology (3 Years)

• Course description: PhD (Probationary) in Medical Science at the MRC Epidemiology Unit
• Course Code: MDEU22
• Duration: 3 years
• Study mode: Full-time (5 years Part-time)

In order to be eligible for the different funding schemes you must ensure your University application (Applicant Portal) is submitted and supporting documents are received by the application funding deadlines.

Application deadlines

Closing date for US Gates applicants: To be confirmed (see Gates Cambridge application timeline for full details)

Closing date for other applicants: Wednesday 7 January 2026

Provisional date for Interviews: Thursday 22 January 2026