The Molecular Plant Sciences programme offered by The University of Edinburgh is one of the most active research spots for plant sciences in the UK, hosting one of the country’s few plant-based research and teaching institutes.
Each of our 11 research groups makes vital contributions to new discoveries. You’ll be able to choose from a broad range of topics, applying multidisciplinary approaches – from computational biology to molecular genetics and cell biology – and to subjects ranging from plant growth, development and evolution to plant pathogen interactions and biotechnology.
Substantial investment has been made in ensuring the equipment and facilities you’ll use are as good as those anywhere in the world.
You’ll work in purpose-built laboratories and specialist facilities for plant growth, including a high-throughput Arabidopsis genetics facility, a suite of biochemistry equipment, more than 700m2 of controlled environment growth rooms and 2,200m2 of glasshouses, including a modern category three containment glasshouse.
Our strong links with the Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, SynthSys, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh give you access to an even broader range of facilities and expertise.
Starting in
Starting in
Starting in
Always verify the dates on the programme website.
We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application.
You can choose to do this programme part-time or full-time.
Full-timeWe offer a wide range of research interests, including:
Minimum required score:
The TOEFL iBT ® measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The test has four sections (reading, listening, speaking, and writing), each with a score range of 0-30, for a total score range of 0-120.
Minimum required score:
The IELTS – or the International English Language Test System – tests your English-language abilities (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) on a scale of 1.00–9.00. The minimum IELTS score requirement refers to which Overall Band Score you received, which is your combined average score. Read more about IELTS.
You need the following GPA score:
Applicants for graduate programs must have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA equivalent to Upper Second Class on the UK Honour scale. Admitted applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of or better on the UK Honour scale. No exam grade should be lower than 4.5 (European grade scale) or D (American grade scale).
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated using the grades that you received in each course, and is determined by the points assigned to each grade (e.g. for the US grading scale from A-F).
Home/EU fees have still to be agreed.
PhD part-time fees
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.