PhD Pharmacology: 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.

Pharmacology attempts to understand how drugs work and how drugs can be usefully employed for the treatment of a variety of disease states. Pharmacological approaches integrate a variety of research methods including molecular biology, electrophysiological studies on single cells and whole tissues, whole organism studies and human volunteer programmes of study. A major focus is how these approaches can be applied to specific disease states and many groups have collaborations with industrial or clinical researchers.

Examples of research In the faculty include:

• Neuropharmacology & Modification of CNS Function
• Immunopharmacology & Infections
• Secretion & Ion channels
• Smooth Muscle Contractility & Relaxation
• Anti-proliferative Pharmacology & Tumour Cell Apoptosis

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.