PhD Cell Biology: The University of Manchester

Course description

PhD programmes are based on individual research projects that last 3 or 4 years, working with a specific academic supervisor (principle investigators). Applicants are specifically matched with a principle investigator based on their research interests and background.

Advances in Cell Biology are at the cutting edge of biological research. The Faculty has considerable breadth and expertise underpinned by state-of-the-art facilities in confocal, electron and light microscopy. Much of the research carried out is focussed on understanding the molecular basis of cell division, organelle biogenesis and protein targeting, differentiation, adhesion and secretion. These investigations are carried out using a diversity of model animal, plant and microbial systems such as: Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans, Xenopus, Arabidopsis thaliana, E. coli and yeasts along with mammals, parasites and crops. Examples of research programmes include:

• Cytoskeleton & Control of the Cell Cycle
• Molecular Mechanisms of Chromosome Segregation
• Mechanisms of DNA Repair
• Animal and Plant Apoptosis
• Palate & Epidermal Development
• Protein Targeting
• Translocation & Secretion
• Adhesion & the Extracellular Matrix
• Vascular Development in Plants
• Ultrastructure of Eukaryotic Microbes & Fungi
• Host Immune Responses

Career opportunities

In terms of career progression, the majority of their postgraduate students remain in research, while others move into related areas such as education, information technology, consultancy and management, helped by the  comprehensive skills training they gain during their programme of study.