CRUK Manchester Institute 4-year PhD student­ships

About the project

Train as a cancer research scientist

Launch your career in basic, translational and clinical cancer research

Join an exciting, fully funded PhD programme and immerse yourself in cutting-edge scientific research at the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute (CRUK MI).

The CRUK MI is a leading cancer research institute within The University of Manchester, and is supported by major core funding from Cancer Research UK, the largest independent cancer research organisation in the world.

We are seeking talented graduates from biological sciences, mathematics, computer science, or chemistry to pursue research careers. Benefit from a vibrant, interactive environment with access to world-class facilities and full financial support. You'll be provided with extensive training, career development, and networking opportunities.

With access to state-of-the-art labs and expert mentorship, students are positioned at the forefront of cancer research. Register in April or September, and join a global community dedicated to advancing science.

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Related pages:

• About CRUK MI
• About the studentships
• How to apply
• Funding and fees
• Understanding funding
• Funded programmes
• Fees and costs
• Other funding support

Driving change

The CRUK MI is at the heart of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre , a partnership that brings together the expertise, vision and resources of its founding partners: The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and Cancer Research UK, all of whom have formidable individual reputations in the fields of cancer treatment and research.

Research highlight

Cancer research in Manchester is world-leading. Cancer is one of The University of Manchester's research highlights, showcasing pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet.

Learn about how we're reducing the global cancer burden and innovating to extend lives.

Cancer research highlight

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Developing future experts

We are committed to training the next generation of cancer research scientists, helping launch careers in basic, translational and clinical cancer research.

Postgraduate students enjoy a supportive environment, a challenging project and, together with tailored training in transferable and generic skills, development as independent scientists with excellent career prospects will ensue.

Each year we recruit students to join us on our four-year PhD programme through Cancer Research UK studentships within the Institute. We welcome applications from UK, EU and international students.

Funding

CRUK studentships are fully funded by Cancer Research UK and come with a generous tax-free stipend (living allowance) per annum of £22,894, tuition fees at home or international rate and allocation of appropriate level of funding to ensure the project bench fees are fully supported.

Key dates

For 2027/28 entry, applications are now open until 17:00 (GMT) on Friday, 6 November 2026 with face-to-face interviews being held on Monday, 11 January 2027. Candidates may be requested to return on Tuesday 12 January 2027 for further meetings and discussions.

Registration

We are flexible as to intake within University postgraduate semesters, with registrations in either January, April or September.

Additional PhD studentships and vacancies may be advertised at various times throughout the year.

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Take the next step in your research career

Interested students can find full group and project details (when available), entry criteria and details on how to apply on the CRUK Manchester Institute website.

Visit the CRUK Manchester Institute website

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Research areas