Job Description
Overview
Undertake research that has real-world benefits with our Applied and Molecular Microbiology PhD/MPhil/MD. You’ll explore the application of molecular approaches to the study of microbes (bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites) that impact upon medicine, agriculture, veterinary practice or other industry.
Introduction
The Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences (IVES) was established to integrate the cutting-edge research of medical, veterinary and basic science researchers from across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences.
Research in the field aims to use microbes to enhance our ability to control pathogens, pests, and to protect our food security. Ultimately, this work has a real-world impact, improving the health and lifestyles of humans and animals.
Our research encompasses the characterisation, design and/or use of microbes and microbial products that impact upon medicine, agriculture, veterinary or other industrial practice. This includes the manipulation of the microbiota, the use of microbes to control the growth of specific pathogens or the use of microbial symbionts to control insect or other pests.
Research topics
Our Applied and Molecular Microbiology PhD/MPhil covers a broad range of potential topics for investigation. We welcome research proposals in topics including:
- One Health research
- Global health
- Pathogens, parasites, microbiomes and syndromes
- Adaptation to environmental change and natural capital
- Animal health research.
How to apply
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1. Identify potential supervisors
Find potential supervisors:
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology
- Department of Livestock and One Health
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour.
For any questions about finding a supervisor, please contact the IVES Postgraduate Research Administration team:
- Email: ivespgradmin@liverpool.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)151 794 8032.
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2. Prepare your application documents
You may need the following documents to complete your online application:
- A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
- University transcripts and degree certificates to date
- Passport details (international applicants only)
- English language certificates (international applicants only)
- A personal statement
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact details for two proposed supervisors
- Names and contact details of two referees.
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3. Apply
Finally, register and apply online. You’ll receive an email acknowledgment once you’ve submitted your application. We’ll be in touch with further details about what happens next.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year – £5,006
Part-time place, per year – £2,503
International fees
Full-time place, per year – £31,250
Part-time place, per year – £15,650
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this degree, as well as general student living costs.
Funding your PhD
If you’re a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan worth up to £30,301 to help with course fees and living costs.
There’s also a variety of alternative sources of funding. These include funded research opportunities and financial support from UK research councils, charities and trusts. Your supervisor may be able to help you secure funding.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition fees and living expenses.
Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
If you’re awarded this prestigious scholarship, you’ll receive significant funding to support your postgraduate research. This includes full payment of your PhD fees and a cash bursary of £17,000 per year while you study. One award is available in each academic year.
Sport Liverpool Performance Programme
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
