PhD Synthetic and Systems Biology
University of Manchester
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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

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Location

The University of Manchester

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

48 months

Course info

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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

The University of Manchester

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

48 months

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Biological Sciences
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Course info

Programme descriptionThe first-of-its-kind dual award PhD programme in Synthetic and Systems Biology brings together two globally-renowned institutions at the forefront of research in this area: the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) at The University of Manchester, and the Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology (CSSB) at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.Each share a vision for world-class research in synthetic and systems biology. The MIBs research areas both inform and are ...Read more

Programme description

The first-of-its-kind dual award PhD programme in Synthetic and Systems Biology brings together two globally-renowned institutions at the forefront of research in this area: the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) at The University of Manchester, and the Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology (CSSB) at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

Each share a vision for world-class research in synthetic and systems biology. The MIB's research areas both inform and are informed by its Grand Challenges , which centre on emerging areas of excellence in the wider biotechnology field. Industrial Biotechnology is also one of the University's specialist research beacons and was recently awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education .

It is the mission of the CSSB to pursue excellence in scientific research and education in order to answer some of the fundamental questions of life science. Tsinghua is one of the most prestigious universities in China and is committed, through teaching, research and innovation, to the advancement of both the country and the wider world.

This dual PhD programme will develop biotechnologies to support clean growth in order to deliver drop-in solutions and new sustainable processes to industry, while at the same time providing PhD training and skills to support a transition from a fossil resource to a bio-based system.

Aims

'It promises to be a fantastic programme and will provide a unique educational experience for the next generation of scientists. The strengths of Manchester and Tsinghua together will provide an excellent environment for PhD students to grow and blossom.' - Dr Neil Dixon, Programme Director.

'This Tsinghua-Manchester dual degree PhD programme will provide unique opportunities for students to experience various research environments of both universities, to learn great sciences across national borders and to become more culturally open. More importantly, the students will exploit complementary strengths of both sites.' - Professor George Guoqiang Chen, Programme Director of Tsinghua University.

Career opportunities

This dual PhD programme will provide PhD training and skills to support a transition from a fossil resource to a bio-based system. Excellent career opportunities will stem from the students ability to develop a global perspective and international fluency, opening the door to exciting new job opportunities.

Key stats

WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
63/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
20th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
22nd
What students say
L
Laura
29 Feb 24

Having a good time. Student union is great..Read more

C
Cleopatra
26 Feb 24

We have a great student Union that has low price food, vintage sales, cheap bars, and good student spaces. The university looks a bit plain and modern but some parts of campus are..Read more

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum 2:1 bachelor's degree (or overseas equivalent), in a relevant discipline, plus a master's degree or extensive research experience. Applicants can be internal or external to The University of Manchester.

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29 Feb 24
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Having a good time. Student union is great...
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C
Cleopatra
26 Feb 24
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We have a great student Union that has low price food, vintage sales, cheap bars, and good student spaces. The university looks a bit plain and modern but some parts of campus are...
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Uni info

University of Manchester
Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Manchester Piccadilly  0.3 miles away
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