Overview

About our PhD and MPhil degrees

Basic Dental Science programme at The University of Manchester is based on individual research projects that last three to four years (PhD) or one to two years (MPhil), working with a specific Primary Supervisor and Co-Supervisor(s).
Applicants are specifically matched with a Primary Supervisor and individual project based on their research interests and background.

Craniofacial genetics

We aim to understand the normal developmental mechanisms underlying craniofacial morphogenesis and how these are disturbed in a variety of birth defects.
Group research has identified genetic mutations underlying craniofacial malformations, including Treacher Collins syndrome, Van der Woude syndrome, amelogenesis imperfecta, and dentine dysplasia.

These findings have contributed to quality-of-life improvements as they have impacted directly on clinical management of affected families by providing the basis for genetic counselling internationally.

Stem cell biology

We use human embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and cancer-derived stem cells (CSCs) to study the function of adhesion molecules in development, tumorigenesis and cancer cell metastasis.
The group has demonstrated that ESC differentiation is associated with an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) event that exhibits striking similarities to tumour cell metastasis.

The Ward group is based in state-of-the-art laboratories that include a dedicated facility for the derivation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC).

Craniofacial development

We study the regulation of gene expression in cranial neural crest development and differentiation.
Changes in gene expression instruct the formation of organs and body parts during development and are mainly regulated at the transcriptional level.
The group has made important contributions to the understanding of the gene regulatory networks that control the formation of diverse cranial neural crest derivatives, including the middle and outer ear and the heart circulation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Training and development
All of our postgraduate research students attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Centre for Academic and Researcher Development (CARD).
The programme provides key transferable skills in areas such as commercial awareness, academic writing and public engagement. This training equips our postgraduates with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy.
The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2025-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-06-15 00:00:00
Starting 2026-01-27 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-10-15 00:00:00
Starting 2026-04-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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TOEFL^® IBT

90

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Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Dentistry Health Sciences View 220 other PhDs in Health Sciences in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Lower Second Class

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

Free IELTS Mock Tests!

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

Pass IELTS with Swoosh English! Sign up for a free writing masterclass or claim your exclusive 25% Studyportals discount and accelerate your preparation by taking a course designed by experts to get you the results you need.

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at The University of Manchester and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants are expected to hold, or about to obtain, an Upper Second class Honours degree (or equivalent) in a related subject area. A Lower Second class Honours degree may be considered if applicants also hold a Masters degree with a Merit classification.

English language

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

27000 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 27000 GBP per year during 36 months.
National

4786 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 4786 GBP per year during 36 months.

UK: Clinical £22,500 / £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000
International: Clinical £47,000 / £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500

Living costs for Manchester

645 - 1197 GBP /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.