PhD Molecular Cancer Studies: 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.

The central feature of cancer is that cells fail to respond appropriately to their local environment. By discretely assimilating a variety of extracellular signals, normal cells undergo tightly controlled proliferation and their differentiated fate becomes established. Cancer cells behave very differently, disrupting tissue homeostasis which ultimately compromises the whole organism. Mutations in oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, a process fuelled by acquired genomic instability, allows cancer cells to divide in the absence of proliferative signals, ignore anti-proliferative stimuli and evade apoptotic cues. Blood supplies become hijacked and adjacent normal cells are coerced; positional information is ignored leading to tissue disorganisation, invasion of the surrounding stroma, and metastasis. Understanding the signalling and cell cycle networks that go awry during tumour evolution, and how cancer cells then manipulate their microenvironment, requires in-depth knowledge of many basic biological processes. Members of the Molecular Cancer Studies group are actively engaged in building this knowledge, which is an essential first step towards developing novel therapeutic strategies.

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.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

The standard entry requirement for PhD study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by a Masters degree, or appropriate relevant work experience, may be acceptable.

English language:

For PhD applicants whose first language is not English an IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL 577 (paper based), TOEFL 233 (computer based) or TOEFL 90 (internet based) is required as a minimum.