How to apply
Information about the students we are looking for, funding and the application process. The application period for entry in October 2023 will close on Thursday 12 January 2023.
Applications for entry in October 2023
The closing date for applications is 12 noon GMT on Thursday 12 January 2023.
General entry requirements
Please note
This is a basic science programme. Applicants who are carrying out medical or veterinary training, or who intend to return to clinical practice after completing their PhD, are not eligible to apply.
We are looking for candidates who have (or who expected to be awarded), at least a good 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in a relevant subject.
Typically candidates will already have a good understanding of the field they propose to study, and at least some hands-on research experience.
There is no need to contact a supervisor before applying – the projects described on the website are to give you an idea of the type of work you may be able to undertake with supervisors once you select your PhD project toward the end of your first year on the programme.
We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences. In particular we would like to encourage students from black and other minority ethnic groups to apply, and are committed to assessing applications without reference to the name, age, gender or nationality of the candidates. Exceptionally, candidates who have 2:2 degrees may also be considered.
Seven students recruited for 2023
For the 2023/24 cohort, the Programme has an intake of seven students.
Six places will be fully funded by the Wellcome Trust and are open to applicants from the UK, EU and the Rest of World.
In addition a sixth fully funded scholarship will be awarded by the University of Edinburgh which is also open to applicants from the UK, EU and the Rest of World.
All University fees will be covered for all successful students, regardless of country of citizenship. Visa and International Health Surcharge costs will also be covered for international students.
International student entry requirements
Find out about country-specific postgraduate entry requirements.
Details of International student entry requirements
English language proficiency
Please note that all non-UK candidates whose first language is not English must provide a certificate of proficiency in the English Language before they are able to join the University of Edinburgh. Details of what is needed can be found on the University website.
You do not need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency when you are applying – it is only required before you can be offered an unconditional place on the Programme following the interview.
Generous stipend
All students will receive a generous starting stipend of £19,919 per annum, plus travel and research funds for all four years of the Programme. All University fees will be covered, regardless of country of citizenship.
Submitting applications for entry in October 2023
What you need to do
- Complete online application form
- Complete anonymous demography form
- Send supporting documents to wt-hpgh@ed.ac.uk
- Ensure referees send in reference form by closing date
Details for each section are given below.
Closing date for all applications is 12 noon GMT on Thursday 12 January 2023. Applications submitted late or in the wrong format cannot be accepted.
1. Online application form
2. Applicant demography
3. Supporting documents required
- Standard Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts of first degree courses (and second degree if applicable) - all transcripts should be provided in English, or with official translation if necessary
- Copies of degree certificates with final classification - an official translation should be provided if necessary
Please submit your supporting documents by 12 noon GMT on Thursday 12 January 2023 via email
4. References
All applicants should give the names of two academic referees on their application form. It is the applicant's responsibility to contact each of their referees and ask them to complete and submit the referee form.
The referee forms should be returned in pdf format directly by the referees by 12 noon GMT on Thursday 12 January 2023 via email
If you have any questions please email Hilary Snaith (wt-hpgh@ed.ac.uk).
Arrangements for candidate interviews
It is anticipated that interviews will be held online in late February 2023.
Successful candidates who are selected for interview will be informed two weeks before the interview date.
More information
Information about postgraduate study at the University of Edinburgh