Plant Biosystems Design University of Cambridge

Overview

A PhD in Plant Biosystems Design at University of Cambridge takes four years of full-time study to complete (or equivalent part-time) and consists of research and training courses under academic supervision. All students will attend an annual three-day residential training retreat. Students will develop a deep theoretical and practical understanding through research into aspects of Engineering Biology in plant cells and systems, augmented by training courses delivered within the University of Cambridge’s School of Biological Sciences, or in cohort training delivered by Universities of Bristol, York and the John Innes Centre. 

Students will be trained to apply the engineering principles of problem-driven research, standardisation, and iterative design-build-test-learn processes that incorporate simulations and modelling. Training will include computational modelling, data science, genetic logic and circuit design, protein design, entrepreneurship, and responsible innovation. These specialist training will be underpinned by training in data-management, statistics, personal development, project management, research integrity, health and safety, wellbeing, writing a thesis, and how to give effective scientific presentations.

Full-time PhD students must submit a thesis for examination by the end of their fourth year of study.

Learning outcomes

The primary outcomes from successfully completing a PhD include expertise in:

· Specialist training in experimental or theoretical methods

· An ability to analyse relevant literature and apply it to the development of innovative research

· Capacity to develop and apply data abstraction and analytical procedures with an appropriate level of statistical validation

· Independence in designing and conducting original research and preparing that data in a format suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals

· Enhanced organisational skills in terms of time management, good laboratory practices, safety and planning a specific programme of research

On completion of their PhD, students will be well-prepared to undertake additional independent research in their existing research field or by applying their expertise and understanding in a new field. Graduates will have a good grounding in the collation and organisation of research for reports or peer-reviewed papers and will be prepared for a career in academia or in other fields such as industry or policy.