At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct transformative research in biosciences and collaborate with peers on innovative projects.
- Company: University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, leaders in frontier science.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD, annual stipend, tailored training, and professional internship opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse community committed to equality and inclusion in research.
- Why this job: Elevate your career while making a real impact in sustainable bioscience research.
- Qualifications: Open to candidates with relevant degrees or equivalent experience in biosciences and related fields.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 € per year.
Area: Biosciences
Location: UK
Closing Date: Sunday 17 May 2026
Reference: SCI3067
PhD studentships with the Nottingham BBSRC DLA Programme
Up to 30 fully funded, four‑year PhD studentships are available in the biosciences. Join us to elevate your career, conducting transformative research in one of three priority themes. Start date: September 2026.
Thanks to £14m of funding awarded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University are offering fully funded innovative four‑year cohort‑based training in frontier science.
- Research Clusters
- Alternative and Emerging Protein sources for Sustainable food and feed (Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security) – Cluster lead Professor John Brameld
- RIC@N‑DLA: Multiscale RNA Science from mechanisms to applications (Bioscience for Human Health) – Cluster lead Dr Federico Dajas‑Bailador
- Future Genomes Across Life – Engineering biology for sustainability and innovation (Biotechnology for Sustainable Growth) – Cluster lead Professor Thorsten Allers
Standard Programme Overview
You will work alongside your cluster peers for the first ten weeks of your studies. During this time, you will receive cluster‑specific training and conduct lab rotations before being supported to choose your research project. Year two to four you will conduct your PhD, as with a standard award. In your third year you will undertake a three‑month professional internship placement. Throughout the programme you will have access to tailored training, an annual spring conference and cohort development activities.
CASE Programme
Please note, we also offer a CASE (Collaborative Awards in Science and Engineering) programme. This offers students the opportunity to engage in cutting‑edge research alongside an industry CASE partner.
Requirements
Applications are invited from candidates with backgrounds in Bioscience, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Chemical/Biochemical/Process Engineering, Environmental Science, Pharmacy, Computer Science, Maths, or related disciplines who have or expect to graduate with a first/upper‑second UK honours degree, or equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK. Applications are also welcome from candidates with a 2:2 undergraduate degree or lower, who hold a Masters degree in a relevant area or three or more years of full‑time work experience relevant to their undergraduate degree, or to the PhD projects they are applying for. The Standard Programme is open only to those with home fee status.
Funding details
Funding is available for four years from October 2026. The award covers tuition fees at the UK rate, plus an annual stipend. The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) stipend is tax‑free and is set at £21,805 for 2026/27 entry.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Nottingham BBSRC DLA is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in its recruitment practices and throughout the delivery of our PhD programme. For 2026 recruitment, we are operating a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants from Black and Black mixed backgrounds who hold home fee status.
PhD Studentship: BBSRC-DLA Standard Studentship Programme in Nottingham employer: University Of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University offer an exceptional environment for aspiring researchers through the BBSRC DLA Standard Studentship Programme. With fully funded PhD opportunities, a strong focus on innovative training, and access to tailored development activities, students can thrive in a collaborative and inclusive culture that prioritises professional growth and impactful research in the biosciences. Located in the UK, this programme not only provides financial support but also fosters a vibrant academic community dedicated to sustainability and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: BBSRC-DLA Standard Studentship Programme in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty members in your field. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the programme and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to your research interests. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for biosciences during interviews. Share specific examples of your previous work or projects that align with the research themes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and resources to help you along the way.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: BBSRC-DLA Standard Studentship Programme in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your background and skills align with the specific research themes. We want to see your passion for biosciences shine through!
Showcase Your Experience:Whether it's your academic achievements or relevant work experience, be sure to showcase what makes you a great fit for this PhD studentship. We love seeing candidates who have hands-on experience in their field.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your enthusiasm comes across!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly!
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the research themes offered by the BBSRC DLA Programme. Familiarise yourself with the work of the cluster leads and their projects. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your background aligns with their research.
✨Prepare Your Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the programme, lab rotations, and internship opportunities. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the programme is the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any relevant experience you have in biosciences or related fields. Whether it's coursework, projects, or work experience, be ready to discuss how these experiences have prepared you for the PhD journey.
✨Practice Your Pitch
Craft a concise personal pitch that summarises your academic background, research interests, and career aspirations. Practising this will help you communicate confidently during the interview and leave a lasting impression.
