The Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (Loke CTR) at the University of Cambridge is offering fully funded 4-year PhD Studentships for both home and overseas students for the 2025/2026 academic year. The programme provides outstanding training in placental biology, reproductive science, and early development, offering students the opportunity to work with world-leading researchers across multiple Cambridge departments and institutes.

To be eligible, applicants must hold or expect to obtain a strong first or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as biology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline. They should demonstrate a keen interest in placental or reproductive biology and meet the University of Cambridge’s English language requirements if applicable.

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious public collegiate research university located in Cambridge, England. It was founded in 1209 by scholars who left the University of Oxford after a dispute with local townspeople, making it the world’s third-oldest university in continuous operation. It received a royal charter in 1231 from King Henry III. Cambridge comprises 31 semi-autonomous constituent colleges and over 150 academic departments organized into six schools.

Application Deadline: 4 November 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: University of Cambridge – Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (Loke CTR)
• Department: Departments of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pathology, Genetics, and affiliated institutes
• Course Level: PhD (Doctoral Programme)
• Award: Fully Funded
• Access Mode: Online Application
• Number of Awards: Multiple
• Nationality: Home and Overseas Students
• The award can be taken in: United Kingdom

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Open to students from all nationalities (Home and Overseas).
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The studentship will be awarded in any relevant field of placental biology, reproductive science, and developmental biology offered under the Loke CTR PhD programme.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • Hold (or expect to hold) a first-class or strong upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as biology, biomedical sciences, genetics, or a related field.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in placental biology, reproduction, or developmental research.
  • Meet the University of Cambridge English language requirements, if applicable.
  • Have relevant research experience or lab-based coursework (desirable but not mandatory).
  • Be able to identify and contact potential supervisors before applying.

How to Apply

Application Documents:

• • List of up to 3 possible PhD supervisors ranked in order of preference.
  • Personal statement (up to 500 words) outlining your motivation for pursuing PhD research at the Loke CTR and your choice of one or more PhD supervisors from the “Current Projects on offer” section.
  • List of any relevant research experience, lab-based courses, or other relevant activities.
  • The names and contact details of two academic or research project references.A completed application form with the following information:

Applicants must submit their complete application materials to [email protected]

Benefits

• Full tuition fees (Home or Overseas rate)
• Stipend for living expenses for the duration of the 4-year PhD
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities across Cambridge departments and institutes
• Participation in Loke CTR Placental Biology Courses, seminars, and conferences
• Opportunities to present research at Loke CTR meetings and international events
• Membership in the Postgraduate School of the Life Sciences, offering additional training and networking.

Apply Now